Russell Simons Discusses Harriet Tubman 'Sex Tape' Backlash
Russell Simmons has given an extended statement on the controversy that erupted over the Harriet Tubman "sex tape" parody.
Simmons spoke to Your Black World about the furor regarding the video. The parody depicted the civil rights icon capturing her sexual relations on tape as a means of gaining her freedom and thus in turn freeing other slaves. In reality, the abolitionist was beaten and abused by her masters during the time of slavery in the 1800's. She started the Underground railroad and earned the nickname of Moses since she helped free so many from captivity.
The parody, which was featured on Simmon's's All Def Digital YouTube channel, was pulled because of the backlash. Earlier in the day, Simmons had tweeted that the video was the funniest thing he had ever seen.
"Mostly, as a protector of artists, the piece in question was the oldest form of comedy - the oppressed taking revenge on the oppressor. It was, at the time in my misguided opinion, acceptable. But when members of the black community expressed their disappointment in me, I understood their pain and it broke my heart," Simmons told the site.
Simmons added that this was the first time that he has ever sided against an artist. He said all those who were involved in the video agreed with his decision to pull the parody.
"Let's move on, but if not, don't blame anyone but me. I'm willing to take the heat. I have been taking it all of my adult life. Love to the artistic community, but in this case, more love to the black community - especially black women," he said.