The conversation around diversity has been intensifying lately, making everyone think about its importance in all areas of life. One recent topic of discussion? The iconic 90s sitcom Friends.
Quinta Brunson, known for her role in Abbott Elementary, recently pointed out Friends for its lack of diversity. While hosting Saturday Night Live, Brunson used her monologue to highlight the absence of Black characters in the beloved show.
Brunson contrasted the diversity on Abbott Elementary, which features the lives of teachers in a predominantly Black, state-funded elementary school in Philadelphia, with the noticeable lack of diversity on Friends. The difference was strikingly evident.
With her well-known wit, she joked: “I wanted to be on SNL back in the day, but the audition process seemed long – so instead, I just created my own TV show, made sure it became really popular, won a bunch of Emmys, and then got asked to host. So much easier, so much easier.”
While the audience chuckled, the underlying point was clear. Brunson continued, “It’s a network sitcom like, say, Friends. Except, instead of being about a group of friends, it’s about a group of teachers. Instead of New York, it’s in Philadelphia, and instead of not having Black people, it does.”
Her playful commentary sparked serious reflection, even from Friends co-creator Marta Kauffman. Kauffman has publicly expressed embarrassment over the show’s lack of diversity and pledged $4 million to support African and African-American studies at a university.
“I’ve learned a lot in the last 20 years,” Kauffman admitted. “Admitting and accepting guilt is not easy. It’s painful looking at yourself in the mirror. I’m embarrassed that I didn’t know better 25 years ago.”
She added, “It took me a long time to begin to understand how I internalized systemic racism. I’ve been working really hard to become an ally, an anti-racist. And this seemed to me to be a way that I could participate in the conversation from a white woman’s perspective.”
The discussion around diversity is far from over, but it’s clear that the conversation has advanced—even for a cherished sitcom like Friends.
9 Dangerous Glass Stovetop Habits You Should Never Make
Though they are stylish and simple to maintain, glass stovetops must be handled carefully to prevent damage. Here are nine risky behaviors to stay away from:
Applying Abrasive or Rough Cleaners
“Avoid using abrasive or rough cleaners as they can cause surface scratches.” Apply a mild cleaning made specifically for glass stovetops.
Setting Up Bulky Pots and Pans
Heavy cookware can cause glass stovetops to crack. “Use lightweight pots and pans” to shield surfaces from harm.
Pots and Pans that Slid
Cookware dragging may cause scratches on glass. Pots and pans should never be slid; always elevate them.
Leaving Traces and Leaks
“Clean spills promptly” to prevent damage and baked-on stains.
Using Unclean Cookware to Cook
Stovetop residue from unclean cookware might be harmful. Make sure your cookware is spotless.
Putting Hot Lids Down, Face Up
Hot lids have the potential to break glass and produce abrupt temperature fluctuations. Pick a surface that can withstand heat.
Disregarding Chips or Cracks
“Don’t ignore chips or cracks,” as they may enlarge and break the stovetop. Look for repairs right away.
Warming Up a Vacant Pot or Pan
Cooktop damage can result from overheating empty cookware. Keep food or liquids in your pots at all times.
Not adhering to the manufacturer’s recommendations
Observe detailed maintenance guidelines to prevent damage and safety risks.
Take care of your glass stovetop by avoiding these habits.
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