Leslie David Baker Sharing The Hateful DMs He Received Proves Racism Is Far From Dead

    "Bigotry and hate will not be allowed to eradicate art or Black people."

    Despite those who "don't see color" and those who dismiss injustices that don't directly affect them, racism is still alive and well.

    And unfortunately, actor Leslie David Baker, widely known for playing Stanley Hudson in The Office, was recently met with racist messages on his Instagram account after telling fans about his proposed new project.

    Leslie David Baker posing at a Hollywood event

    Last month, Leslie told fans that he's looking to bring his character Stanley out of retirement with a new show called Uncle Stan. Fans were directed to a Kickstarter page in his bio.

    But in the midst of his campaign, despite surpassing his $300,000 goal, the 62-year-old received hateful direct messages in response to the project. Earlier this week, Leslie shared those messages with his followers.

    "For those of you who don’t believe racism is still alive in the world," Leslie wrote on Instagram. "Here’s the proof."

    A screen grab of the racist messages Leslie David Baker received on Instagram

    "Our goal has simply been to entertain and give the fans a quality series."

    A screen grab of the racist messages Leslie David Baker received on Instagram

    "These rants are evidence that there is still a great deal of work that needs to be done here in America regarding racism."

    A screen grab of the racist messages Leslie David Baker received on Instagram

    Leslie concluded, "Bigotry and hate will not be allowed to eradicate art or Black people. Enough said."

    A screen grab of the racist messages Leslie David Baker received on Instagram

    The disgraceful messages were followed by graphic images of Black people being lynched and tied to trees.

    A screen grab of the racist images Leslie David Baker received on Instagram

    Leslie posted other vile messages he's received during his campaign, and fans immediately rallied behind him. They shared their love and appreciation for the actor, as did his co-star on The Office, Angela Kinsey...

    A screen grab of Angela Kinsey's comment to Leslie David Baker

    ...and comedian Luenell.

    A screen grab of Luenell's comment to Leslie David Baker

    This is a reminder that although the topic of race might be tiring to some, it's a never-ending battle to those who actually deal with it on a regular basis.