Jamie Foxx Stands Tall: "They Can't Erase Our History" Amid DEI Rollback

Jamie Foxx clarifies that you can try to Pixelate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), but Black excellence will not be Pixelated. The Oscar-winning actor, comedian, and musician used the March 12 premiere of Apple TV+'s documentary Number One On "The Call Sheet" to stand against the continued dismantling of DEI initiatives. For Foxx, it isn't only about making policy changes and maintaining history, acknowledging Black creatives, and ensuring their stories are told.

"They tripping on us right now," Foxx told Access Hollywood. "They trying to erase stuff. The more history you erase, the more history we put down."

It's a poignant response that speaks to the resilience of Black artists in Hollywood, who persist in creating their own space in the face of barriers. Foxx, a barrier-breaking undoer herself, knows this well.

Foxx's ascent through the entertainment business was aided by those who broke from the pack; as he noted, those pioneers didn't fit the mold of traditional Hollywood tastemakers. "You know what's crazy? I never worked for a white boss," he said, reflecting on his early years. "Then I was on That '70s Show, then I was a boss.

For him, this affirms that Black creatives have been fueling their movements for decades. Black artists have persevered, making themselves heard whether acting, producing, or directing. Foxx also took a moment to pay homage to those who helped inspire his journey, including veteran actor Denzel Washington. He also remembered when Washington went to his home to talk to young actors and actresses and give them advice.

"I'm a fan of all of these people," Foxx said. "Denzel came to my house one day, man, and I was like, 'D, please come, man, and just talk to the young actors and actresses.' And he did."

During the show, Foxx was particularly emotional about Black women's challenges in Hollywood while discussing Number One on "The Call Sheet." He recognized the unfair barriers that have historically constrained their opportunities.

"When you dream as a woman, there's ceiling," he said. "I can only dream. I can't be the swashbuckler. I can't be a superhero."

Next, he recalled a moment while filming with Viola Davis on Law Abiding Citizen as she walked into the scene. "She wore me out, which tells you they got it," he said. "They really can go!"

Foxx's remarks come amid a campaign against DEI initiatives by political leaders, including Donald Trump, who are calling to ban DEI policies in workplaces and educational institutions. But for Foxx, the battle is about more than just politics, ensuring that Black history, accomplishments, and contributions don't fall by the wayside.

With projects like Number One On "The Call Sheet," Foxx and other creators like Kevin Hart and Datari Turner ensure that the next generation knows precisely where their roots are and how far they can take them.

"They may erase DEI," Foxx said, "but they can't erase us."
And with his type leading the way, the future seems uncertain for Black storytelling.