In the world of comedy, satire is the genre that often stings the most but tells the truth. Sometimes you don’t know whether to laugh or shake your head because the truth is thrown in your face, and that’s exactly what MTV has done with “White Squad.”
The satirical ad aims to tackle white privilege and the inequalities that exist for people of color. The fictitious company White Squad provides stand-in white people for those everyday situations in which nonwhite people may encounter discrimination.
“Is your skin color holding you back? Are you tired of systemic prejudice ruining your day?” the narrator asks in the ad for the company.
Need help hailing a cab?
Need help looking for an apartment?
Or maybe even in seeking legal help?
How about applying for a home loan?
Well, White Squad is there to help.
Unfortunately, where the satire ends, real life begins. The fact that these are issues people face every day is a harsh reality. Even comedians like Chris Rock and Dave Chappelle have joked about similar “white squad” scenarios.
Personally, I’ve had a white friend hail a cab for me in New York City as well as Washington, D.C., because I knew my friend would get faster service. If I hadn’t, I’d still be standing there on the corner like Danny Glover. Although “White Squad” aims to prove that there are these inequalities in the world, for some of us, just living day to day is more than enough of a reminder.