The ‘Forties’: More Than ‘The PJs’ Should Handle?
I am writing in response to Howard Rosenberg’s review of “The PJs” on Fox (“ ‘The PJs’: Equal Opportunity Satire,” Jan. 9). I agree that a viewer should be careful not to overreact to the portrayals of blacks in this series.
His comparisons with other shows such as “King of the Hill” and “The Simpsons” is instructive. Yet, I dare say because many whites do not have a lot of contact with blacks, this show will provide some “information” to fill in the gaps. This is where it can be a disservice.
I am not one of the “Ethnic Police.” I do agree that we should afford as much freedom as possible to Fox. My chief complaint is, though, with the issue of “forties.” The ease with which poor black men can and do obtain cheap alcohol is a very serious matter.
Also, by extension, the proliferation of liquor stores in poor black communities that sell “forties” is also a problem. I am sure you are well aware of the problem of the plethora of liquor stores in places like Los Angeles and downtown Oakland and elsewhere despite vehement objections by the citizens of these cities.
In this respect I feel that “The PJs” trivializes the issue of “cheap alcohol.” I would suggest a standard beer can.
DON GARCIA
La Habra
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