BET Networks today unveiled “H.I.S. BET,” a new initiative focused exclusively on African American men. This initiative will feature original content, including videos, photographs and editorial features.

The following events will be presented in conjunction with the launch:

H.I.S. BET & AMERICAN BLACK FILM FESTIVAL PRESENT: “THE LEADING MAN”

This panel will examine the images of Black men projected in film and television, and will include Morris Chestnut, Omari Hardwick, and others. It will be moderated by EBONY contributor Dr. Marc Lamont Hill.

H.I.S. BET and ABFF FILMMAKER CONTEST

The H.I.S. BET and ABFF Filmmaker contest encourages consumers to submit a 3-5 minute video, with the storyline revolving around Health, Image or Service. The winning filmmaker will be announced in the fall and will receive a cash prize along with having the winning video featured on BET’s “106 & PARK.” 

H.I.S. BET AND EBONY MAGAZINE PRESENT: “MY BROTHER'S KEEPER”: DISSOLVING THE PRISON PIPELINE

This panel, presented by H.I.S BET and EBONY Magazine, will address the statistics which reveal that a disproportionate number of young men of color are involved with the prison system. Panelists include Van Jones, Dr. Robert Ross, Touré Roberts, and M.C. Hammer.