Da 5 Bloods is movie releasing on the giant streaming platform Netflix. It talks about the Four African American vets battle the forces of man and nature when they return to Vietnam. The recent release is making noise as it includes war experiences. Keep scrolling, to know what is going on.
Spike Lee’s ‘Da 5 Bloods’ Plot
Actually, African American Vietnam veterans have discussed feeling neglected by the US after running to its defence. In an interview with a media organisation, Several veterans told that the US government gave them little support in the wake of the war’s end. Not only this they didn’t pay attention throughout their lives as ex-servicemen.
Da 5 Bloods, is based on the true story of a black policeman who infiltrated the Ku Klux Klan. The movie is releasing on Netflix on June 12.
Story of Black walls and covered windows
Dedan Kimathi Ji Jaga, 72, was in service in 1968. He returned to the US after his duty, said the government “immediately discharged me back to the roads with no aid”.
Not only this, but Ji Jaga also mentioned about his stress disorder after his service. Moving back to the lane of memories, Ji Jaga mentioned that he painted his walls black. He covered his windows and sat in darkness all day as a way to manage his severe post-traumatic stress disorder in Da 5 Bloods.
Care after retirement
Richard D Kingsberry was a veteran in Charlotte, North Carolina. He began his service in 1972 in the navy. Here is what he wants to say on the condition “The plight of African American service comrades who worked in Vietnam, where they are now, why they are the way they are, this should be brought to light.”
Further, he added, “A lot of African American service members never got cared for properly after they retired, and that is a life-altering impact.”
We’re second-class citizens
Living in Virginia Larry Doggette, a 70-year-old Vietnam veteran, said: “We as blacks, ever since the civil war, have always go to America’s security, and then when we get back, we’re second-class citizens. We still are today”.
The difficulties of Ji Jaga didn’t end there. In his words, ” Officials concluded that I showed signs of mental instability but that it could not be classified and did not merit benefit.”
He took part in a PTSD study with other veterans. There his white friends receive VA compensation. But he still was not recommended for benefits: “I don’t think this country has the mindfulness to do what’s accurate for its citizens of colour, much less its veterans of colour. We were asking for entitlements that we had deserved,” he said.
Da 5 Bloods is releasing on June 12.