"Think Black" means don't just rely on Black people to support you because you'll starve
That comment wasn't toward HBF...it was a general statement
Black people have survived with each other in the past because THOSE generations struggled with each other and KNEW they NEEDED one another in order to survive
This generation doesn't understand the importance of self sufficiency...that concept is lost...it's every man for him and herself nowadays
We would rather support larger corporations than mom and pop spots...the closing of mom and pop spots solidifies my argument that Blacks won't help each other UNLESS they BELIEVE that
A) You're making major moves (which is why authors generally LIE about book sales or at least exaggerate their progress)
B ) You're validated by the white man
It's Socio-Marketing
Brooklyn is an ENTIRE borough filled with a diversity of people...Harlem is just one area in Manhattan
From my observation, the event draws in different crowds because of its marketing and promotions
They have authors of different nationalities showcased whereas HBF have Black faces in the forefront
When you think of Harlem, you automatically think Black regardless of gentrification...the "exclusion" is automatic
Black writers that HUSTLE will thrive without book fairs...I mean, hell...it's not like they're making money at book fairs anyway unless they have a brand name