Ep 12. He Doth Protest Too Much

Moesha season 5 episode 12, titled "He Doth Protest Too Much," focuses on the issue of homophobia in the African American community. The central character, Moesha (played by Brandy Norwood), is dealing with a difficult situation at her high school. A student named Ernest (played by David Moscow) has come out as gay, and he is being bullied and ostracized by other students as a result.

Moesha is outraged by the way Ernest is being treated and wants to do something to help. She decides to organize a rally in support of gay rights at her school. However, her plans are met with resistance from her friends and family. They tell her that homosexuality is against their religious beliefs and that they don't want to be associated with it.

Moesha struggles to understand why people can't just accept each other for who they are. She takes on the role of a mediator, trying to help her friends and family see that it's possible to respect someone's sexuality without having to believe in it themselves.

The episode also explores the issue of homophobia in the African American community more broadly. Moesha's father, Frank (played by William Allen Young), is a conservative Christian who believes that homosexuality is a sin. He struggles to come to terms with his daughter's activism and her support of gay rights.

As the episode progresses, Moesha's rally draws a diverse crowd of students and teachers, many of whom are initially hesitant to attend. Ernest gives an emotional speech about his experiences as a gay student, and Moesha delivers a powerful message about the importance of standing up for what's right.

In the end, the rally is a success, and Moesha's friends and family come to see that it's possible to support diversity and acceptance without compromising their own beliefs. The episode ends on a hopeful note, with Moesha feeling proud of herself for making a difference in her school community.

Overall, "He Doth Protest Too Much" is an important episode that tackles a sensitive subject with compassion and sensitivity. It's a reminder that we all have a role to play in creating a more accepting and inclusive society.