It's a very one sided article in that they fail to mention any of the alternative roles we see. The pimps and whores all nicely lampooned in Townsend's Hollywood Shuffle. But also the mediocre folks who are only slightly better than the rest of us, example being early Eriq La Salle, Dr. Peter Benton in E.R.. Haven't watched it for years, but he portrayed mediocre as a person. Not esp. interested in any issue other than surgery. God as surgeon yes, but not interested in other people, and not interested in race issues.

So the problem with the article is that it gives the impression that all we see are the magical negroes.

Interesting comment about the Matrix given other Matrix rumor that it was supposed to be all black cast, except for the bad guys. If Neo & Trinity had been black what would that have done to the theory here.

Geordi on the other hand, was a god personified. Blind, but could see better than the rest of us! And he did make Wesley's life better, who else would be a true friend to the toady son of the ship's doctor? (Kidding Wil)

Can't we all hear Geordi singing this Amazing Grace (making God be the prime directive, or star fleet, or Jean Luc...)

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved.
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far
And grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures;
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.

Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
and mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.

When we've been there ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun,
We've no less days to sing God's praise
Than when we've first begun.