Harlem Unbound - Call of Cthulhu
About a month ago I posted looking for a GM to run Call of Cthulhu in either the Berlin: The Wicked City or the Harlem Unbound setting. I struck out.
So, having reviewed the Harlem Unbound source book and despite my trepidation, I think I am prepared to run a scenario using its background. Why have I been hesitant? Because I'm a white man in the 21st century, not a black resident of 1920s Harlem and I wonder if I am up to communicate that milieu and guide others through it. But I'm ready to make the attempt. I'm encouraged by these words from the book.
"This game…actively encourages players and Keepers to take on roles of minorities. This may lead to a more difficult gaming challenge: to look at the past for what it really was. Harlem Unbound does not gloss over racism in the name of gameplay. Racism is part of the world and part of the game. …I tried to write the book in such a way that it would be approachable to all gamers, but respectful of the truth of history and racism without making a mockery of the pain and perseverance of so many people.
When playing someone of a different race, there must be sensitivity to avoid any form of cultural appropriation. It is possible to honor and interact with the culture on more than just an aesthetic level.
Blackface? Just don’t. Don’t try to talk with a “black” accent. Don’t try to have “black” mannerisms or fall into any of the countless stereotypes. This is a key thing for any Keeper to convey once you have crafted your scenario."
Note that player characters aren't restricted to AfricanAmerican backgrounds, other minorities and white allies and patrons may be included, but I would hope to have a good representation of black characters.
Are you up to the challenge?