The Promise of Baldwin Hills

BET's reality show Baldwin Hills debuted it's second season a few weeks ago, as it continues to monitor the lives of black teenagers in the Los Angeles suburb of Baldwin Hills. On the surface the show can be described as showcasing the bourgeois aspect of black teen life as most of the teens live in middle to upper middle class households. Peering deeper into the respective personalities of the teens, we discover that all of them have distinct personalities that make their interactions coffee talk for even adults who watch the show.

This season's breakout personality appears to be Lor’Rena, who from the first episode made it clear that Moriah Johnson, son of former NBA star Marques Johnson, was the object of her desires. Only 17, Lor'Rena's aggressive motives can be questioned, but if she stays on the straight and narrow, her loquaciousness and quick wit will serve her well into adulthood.

Another newcomer, Justin is also an interesting personality. Having overcome some legal issues, Justin works as a youth pastor, and is part of a writing trio called BRW (Black Writers Bureau). The trio co-wrote the chart topping song, "Damaged" by pop group, Danity Kane.

A holdover from last season, Staci comes from the "other side" of the tracks. Instead of taking a job as an intern in the fashion industry, she's forced to take a job that pays because she simply needs the money. The dynamics of Staci's personal life are complicated, but watching her manage the myriad of issues is quite compelling.

The promise of Baldwin Hills is watching teenagers navigating the pressures of being young and black in America. Successfully handling these pressures will bode well for them as they move into young adulthood.