Niecy Nash Introduces a Hotline for Racist White People Who Call the Police for No Reason
After several incidents where white racist call the police on Black people just living their lives –Comedian Niecy Nash is starring in a satirical infomercial catered to people who rather call 911.
In partnership with the New York Times, Nash stars in the 2 minute video that calls out white people who’ve called the police on Black people for doing ordinary things. The “infomercial” also shows clips of recent viral videos of white people not minding their business – including Permit Patty, Coupon Carl and BBQ Betty.
“You’re scared, you’re white, but with cell phone cameras and social media, calling 911 on your black or brown neighbors just isn’t what it used to be,” Nash says in the beginning of the ad. “Hi, I’m Niecy Nash, actress, inventor and advocate for not calling 911 on black people for no goddamn reason. I want to introduce you to a radical new product that will save you from all the headaches from being filmed and outed as a racist douche.”
In the video, Nash also list instances where people should call the hotline instead of dialing 911 – which were all inspired by real events. Some of the list includes waiting for a friend at a coffee shop, taking a nap in the rec room, golfing, mowing the lawn, going to work and shopping.
Now here’s the kick… the number actually works! When dialed, callers are greeted with an automated message:
“Thank you for calling 1-844-WYT-FEAR. We are here to address your urgent concerns about black or brown people living their life near you.” After several menu options, the recording will conclude that “based on your menu selection, we have determined that you are not in danger and probably just racist.”
Along with the video, the New York Times lists 39 instances that took place this year alone where the police have been called on black people for no reason. Some of them include;
New York: When a former Obama aide was moving into his new apartment.
Brentwood, Mo.: When three teenagers went shopping for prom.
Tacoma, Wash.: When two women were shopping at a store.
Cleveland: When a 12-year-old was mowing the lawn
Wellington Manor, Ga.: When a woman smoked a cigarette in a parking lot.
Clackamas, Ore.: When a state representative was campaigning.
San Francisco: When a man was checking the alarm at his own store.
Mountian View, Calif.: When a woman donated food to the homeless.
Marietta, Ga.: When a man was babysitting two white children.
Philadelphia: When a family tried to leave a movie theater.
Be sure to check out the video below.
Photo Credit: PR Photos
