The term “sell-out” in the black community is a very complicated concept. For some it means “acting white.” For others it means forgetting where you came from once you’ve “made it.”
It’s an unfortunate reality that intelligent black men are not prized greatly in America, and in some parts of the black community. The stereotype that black people are less intelligent than whites, and just about every other race is almost ingrained in our Society, as well as societies around the world.
That being said, there are very real “sell-outs” who really do turn their backs on the black community. Charles Barkley is a very good example. But now Lee Daniels, creator of Precious and Lee Daniels The Butler, seems to have thrown his name into the hat.
Daniels also levels accusations against the reputation of the Oscar winning actress Mo’Nique , stating that she was “blackballed” because of? she didn’t “play the game” or “play ball” with Hollywood. He also accused Mo’Nique of “reverse racism.”
Mo’Nique does later reply to Daniels accusations, but lets hear from Daniels in his own words on why he considers himself a “sell-out” and why he doesn’t consider it a bad thing at all. Watch the video below.