BET Awards 2022: A Night of Glitz, Glamour, and Political Pandering

The BET Awards 2022, held on June 26th at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, was a spectacle of glitz, glamour, and, unsurprisingly, political pandering. Hosted by the ever-controversial Taraji P. Henson, the event was a showcase of talent, but also a platform for the usual Hollywood elite to push their political agendas. The night was filled with performances, awards, and speeches that seemed more focused on virtue signaling than celebrating the achievements of Black entertainers.

First off, let's talk about the performances. Sure, they were entertaining, but they were also dripping with political undertones. From Lizzo's opening act to Diddy’s Lifetime Achievement Award tribute, the night was peppered with not-so-subtle jabs at conservative values. It seems like every artist had something to say about the state of the nation, and it wasn't exactly a love letter to traditional American values. The BET Awards have always been a platform for artists to express themselves, but this year it felt more like a political rally than an awards show.

Then there were the speeches. Oh, the speeches! It was as if every winner had a checklist of political talking points to hit before they could leave the stage. From climate change to social justice, the speeches were a smorgasbord of liberal buzzwords. It’s almost as if the actual awards were secondary to the opportunity to lecture the audience on how to think and feel. The BET Awards 2022 was less about celebrating Black excellence and more about pushing a narrative that aligns with the Hollywood elite's worldview.

The fashion, while stunning, also had its moments of political messaging. Celebrities used their outfits to make statements, whether it was through slogans or color choices. It’s as if the red carpet has become another battleground for political expression. While fashion has always been a form of self-expression, it’s clear that at the BET Awards, it’s also a form of political expression. The message was clear: if you’re not on board with the current political climate, you’re not welcome.

And let’s not forget the hosts and presenters. Taraji P. Henson, known for her outspoken views, didn’t hold back. Her monologues were peppered with political commentary, ensuring that the audience knew exactly where she stood on the issues. The presenters followed suit, using their time on stage to make statements rather than simply announce the next category. It’s as if the BET Awards have become a platform for political activism rather than entertainment.

The audience, both in-person and at home, was left with a clear message: if you’re not aligned with the liberal agenda, you’re on the wrong side of history. The BET Awards 2022 was a night where entertainment took a backseat to political posturing. It’s a shame, really, because the talent on display was incredible. But instead of focusing on the achievements of the artists, the night was overshadowed by the constant barrage of political messaging.

In the end, the BET Awards 2022 was a reflection of the current state of Hollywood. It’s a place where political correctness reigns supreme, and dissenting opinions are not welcome. The night was a reminder that in the world of entertainment, it’s not enough to be talented; you also have to toe the line politically. The BET Awards 2022 was a night to remember, but not for the reasons it should have been. Instead of celebrating the incredible achievements of Black artists, it became yet another platform for political grandstanding.