In the last year Dorothy Dandridge's legend has been rekindled and she is once again the hearts of many. A new generation of young people now know of this famous movie star of the 50's. In magazines, and on HBO her story is being told. Some people say that she was ahead of her time, I disagree, I think she was on time. Without her who would have been there to pave the way for future actors and actresses?

Someone always has to take the first step and that she did. Ms. Dandridge had the talent and beauty to shine as brightly as any of the hollywood starlets of her time.

Racism is a curious character, he has his hand in everything. His ugly face shows up and sometimes destroy the lives of great women and men.If it had been not for racism Ms Dandridge could have gone on and played Cleopatra instead of Elizabeth Taylor. Ms. Dandridge would not of had to fight for her right to work in her chosen field had her skin been of another color.

Some of the battles this courageous woman fought could have been a lot easier had she been white. However she wasn't and she still got the job done. With her heart and spirit broken she still moved forward. She fought a bravely, she fell many times and always landed on her feet. As Blacks, we do have a lot to be proud of and should remember pioneers like Dorothy Dandrige, thats why I applaud her, she had a tough row to hoe.

The "Hollywood Shuffle" is still being played today, the rules haven't changed so much. Each years many Blacks start "paying dues" to become members in various entertainment fields. Only the strong will survive whether they make it or not. It is all in the luck of the draw.

UPDATE: Kudos to Halle Berry for her Golden Globe Award. Her portrayal of Ms. Dandridge in HBO's orignial movie " Introducing Dorothy Dandridge" has brought her top honors. Congrats to Oba Babatunde for his outstanding performance as Harold Nicholas.