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Three months ago, Kahlief Adams and his podcast, Spawn On Me, recorded and published one of the most important conversations in video game history. In an episode titled A Lesson In Blackness, Adams hosted several prominent Black video game personalities. The program and dialog aired following the murder of George Floyd on May 25, 2020. Adams, and his guests, tackled topics regarding race in American society and video games.
The Initial A Lesson In Blackness
Adams’ guest list consisted of content creator Parris Lilly, Twitch streamer PikaChulita, Mixer streamer-turned Twitch streamer Zombaekillz, Twitch streamer/writer Cameron Hawkins, and Kinda Funny host Blessing Adeoye Jr. The conversation covered multiple spectrums. It began with a necessary conversation about Blackness in both America and 2020. Each individual took turns speaking and sharing their thoughts and experiences. Despite not everyone knowing each other, they all stressed and told the same truth.
As the conversation continued, the podcast dove into the gaming and streaming worlds. At around minute 55 (54.5), Pikachulita connected key points surrounding misogyny on Twitch. Her exchange was powerful and is eye-opening for male listeners. Not long after, Parris Lilly shared an equally striking conversation about public appearance and the business side of video games. Blessing Adeoye Jr. added to Lilly’s point at minute 65.
A Lesson In Blackness – The Reunion
Roughly a week ago, Spawn On Me and Adams’ hosted a second conversation. Appropriately called A Lesson in Blackness – The Reunion. This episode aired on September 1. Again, featuring the same group of speakers. The conversation comes following the shooting of Jacob Blake and the second large wave of mass American protests over police brutality. As well as the passing of Chadwick Boseman.
Since the first A Lesson In Blackness, most of the members of the initial conversation experienced increased notoriety in gaming. This included appearances on major publications (e.g., IGN, Inside Gaming, and Adeoye Jr.’s Kinda Funny). The Reunion emphasizes the gaming industry and how it has changed and stayed the same over the past few months.
Highlights of the conversation include the loss of Boseman, White and corporate support stagnation, spreading awareness of other Black personalities, and the observation that mainstream outlets haven’t been genuine in their efforts to amplify Black voices and to embrace diversity. Rather than detailing more, I implore you to check out the podcast yourself. Full episode below.
Find the discussions on Spawn On Me
If you care about social justice or human rights or video games, Spawn On Me’s initial A Lesson In Blackness is something you need to consume. If that conversation resonates – or even if it doesn’t – The Reunion is an imperative follow-up. Take a few hours and listen to both. You can find Spawn On Me and both A Lesson In Blackness across podcast platforms and on YouTube.