Troy Posted January 29 Report Posted January 29 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, January, 29, 2025 The Demise of DEI: A New Dawn for Black Economic Autonomy with the Inauguration of Black Business Enterprise (BBE) Certification, Echoing Booker T. Washington's Legacy The National Business League Secures Historic USPTO Federal Trademark for Black Business Enterprise (BBE), Revolutionizing Economic Equity and Sovereignty for Black Entrepreneurs Globally Tuskegee, Alabama — Sixty-one years after the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Black American community stands at a pivotal juncture, confronting the enduring legacy of systemic economic exclusion. Despite historical legislative efforts aimed at fostering inclusion, Black America finds itself still entangled in the remnants of colonial economic strategies. Today, the National Business League (NBL)® proudly announces a significant achievement: the securing of a USPTO Federal Trademark for the Black Business Enterprise (BBE)®, under registration numbers 98127825 and 98130839. This landmark development is not merely a legal triumph but a profound cultural declaration against the prevailing economic systems rooted in exclusion, inequity, and systemic racism. Booker T. Washington's Vision Revisited Echoing the ethos of self-reliance and economic empowerment championed by Booker T. Washington, Dr. Ken L. Harris, President and CEO of the National Business League, declared, "We stand on the precipice of reclaiming our economic destiny. Integration was never the solution to our economic disenfranchisement; the experiment has failed. DEI initiatives have failed. Affirmative action has failed. Black businesses and their communities have been left behind, and now we declare unequivocally: We will no longer beg for a seat at the table. We are building our own." A Historical Context of Racial Constructs and Economic Exploitation The discourse on racial constructs and economic exploitation is enriched by scholars like Dr. Theodore W. Allen, who in "The Invention of the White Race," elucidates how race was engineered as a tool for economic control. When the first Africans arrived in Virginia in 1619, there were no “white” people there; America’s ruling classes created the category of the “white race” as a means of social economic control. White privileges have enforced the myth of racial superiority, created in the late 16th century. This understanding is further expanded by Dr. Jacqueline Battalora in "Birth of a White Nation," highlighting legal mechanisms that entrenched racial hierarchies. Contemporary analyses by Tim Wise and Dr. Robin DiAngelo expose how these historical constructs continue to undermine genuine DEI efforts, rendering them ineffective in the modern era. Dr. Jeffrey B. Perry's work further illustrates the global implications of these racial strategies, emphasizing the urgency for a new paradigm in economic justice for Black communities in 2025 and beyond. PR Newswire Link: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-demise-of-dei-a-new-dawn-for-black-economic-autonomy-with-the-inauguration-of-black-business-enterprise-bbe-certification-echoing-booker-t-washingtons-legacy-302358365.html DEI's Hollow Promise: A Critical Analysis Introduction The contemporary discourse on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) has been marked by a profound dissonance between its ideological promise and its practical outcomes, particularly for Black communities in the United States. Despite the proliferation of DEI programs post-Civil Rights Movement, the evidence suggests a pattern of systemic failures in delivering genuine economic and social equity. The Truth of DEI: A Systemic Failure for Black Indigenous Communities Historical Context: 406 Years of Struggle: Black communities in America have endured 406 years of systemic racism, from slavery to modern-day discrimination. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a pivotal moment, yet the benefits of this legislation have disproportionately favored other groups. The Illusion of Inclusion: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI) Critique: Often labeled as DEI, the practice in many institutions and corporations has been more accurately described as (D)on't, (E)ver, (I)ntegrate. This critique stems from observed outcomes where: Beneficiaries: White women, white male members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and other non-Black minorities have seen more tangible benefits from DEI initiatives. Hierarchical Disparity: A clear hierarchy exists, benefiting in descending order from White Women, White Veterans, Asians, to White LGBTQIA+, Hispanics, Native Americans, Ashkenazi Jews, and White Immigrants. Below them, minorities, people of color, disadvantaged, and underserved groups, with Black Indigenous peoples at the very bottom of the economic scale. Data and Evidence: Post-Civil Rights Disparity: Despite Black communities' central role in advocating for civil rights, they have not proportionally benefited from subsequent social advancements. Ownership and Privilege: By 1865, white women owned 45% of the slave plantations in the South, highlighting their historical complicity in the system of slavery, which has translated into modern-day privilege through marriage and association with white male power structures. The Bitter Truth: DEI as a SCAM: A Stark Reality For Black people, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives have largely been a scam, failing to genuinely address the core issues of systemic racism. Here's the stark reality, backed by evidence, data, and history: Systemic Racism and Economic Power Redistribution: Despite the proliferation of DEI programs, there has been little to no significant redistribution of economic power or resources to Black communities. Data shows that the wealth gap between Black and white Americans has not significantly narrowed over the last few decades. In 2023, the typical Black family had a median net worth of about $24,100, compared to $188,200 for white families, indicating a persistent and widening economic disparity. This stark contrast in wealth accumulation underscores the failure of DEI to tackle systemic economic inequalities. Supplier Diversity Programs: Supplier diversity programs, which are often highlighted as a part of DEI efforts, have struggled to effectively engage, develop, onboard, and maintain Black suppliers. Studies and reports indicate that Black-owned businesses continue to receive a disproportionately small fraction of corporate contracts. For instance, in 2024, Black startups received only 0.12% of venture capital funding, highlighting how DEI in business practices has not translated into substantial support for Black entrepreneurship. This lack of progress suggests that these programs might be more about optics than actual economic empowerment. Maintaining the Status Quo: DEI often acts more as a band-aid than a cure, providing visibility to issues without driving substantive change. The backlash against DEI, including legislative efforts to dismantle these programs, further illustrates how these initiatives are perceived by some as superficial rather than transformative. The claim by critics that DEI is merely "performative" is supported by the fact that many companies have scaled back or entirely eliminated DEI positions and programs following public and political pressure, without addressing underlying inequalities. Failure to Engage with Core Issues: A significant portion of DEI initiatives focuses on training and awareness rather than actionable change in hiring practices, promotion, or economic support. This has led to criticisms that DEI efforts are long on promises but short on delivery, with many Black professionals feeling that these programs do not lead to tangible benefits in career advancement or economic mobility. The historical trajectory of DEI since its inception shows that while it might have started with good intentions, it has not fundamentally altered the racial economic landscape. Instead, it has sometimes served to maintain the status quo by giving the appearance of progress without the substance, thereby continuing to marginalize Black communities in the economic sphere. Call for New Discourse: Centering Black Voices: It is imperative that we shift the narrative to one that places Black voices and experiences at the center of discussions on equity and liberation. This discourse must challenge the existing frameworks that only superficially engage with diversity. Conclusion: The evidence is clear; DEI initiatives, as currently practiced, do not serve Black indigenous communities but rather perpetuate a cycle where Black struggle is acknowledged yet not addressed in meaningful ways. It's time for a radical reevaluation of these practices to ensure they are not just symbolic but transformative, focusing on genuine equity and liberation for Black people. October 16, 1901, President Theodore Roosevelt, in an unprecedented act, extended an impromptu dinner invitation to Booker T. Washington, making him the first African American to dine at the White House. This event transcended mere social interaction, catalyzing a significant discourse on civil and economic rights across the nation. [Photo Credit: Courtesy of The National Business League Archives] Legal Setbacks Affirmative Action and Supreme Court Decisions: The 2023 Supreme Court decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard and UNC, driven by minority Asian American plaintiffs, has effectively dismantled race-based affirmative action, a cornerstone of many DEI initiatives. This legal shift underscores a major setback, leaving Black communities to navigate educational and economic landscapes with diminished legal support for diversity efforts. The implications of this ruling extend beyond academia, affecting corporate and governmental diversity policies, rendering them legally tenuous and operationally challenging. Performative Government and Corporate Promises Financial Pledges vs. Actual Impact: Since the racial awakening following events like the George Floyd murder in 2020, over $200 billion has been pledged for racial equity. However, these commitments have rarely translated into systemic change for Black businesses. A deeper analysis reveals that much of this funding has been either misallocated or not effectively targeted towards Black economic empowerment. Large-scale relief packages like the CARES Act, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, and the American Rescue Plan have disproportionately failed to reach Black communities, with estimates suggesting less than 1% of these funds have directly benefited Black American businesses and individuals. A report from career site Zippia details that of these positions, only 4% of the roles were occupied by Black people in 2023. Structural Regression Shrinking DEI Departments: There has been a noticeable trend where DEI roles within organizations are either reduced or repurposed into less impactful positions, signaling a retreat from genuine commitment to Black economic upliftment. This regression is often masked by performative gestures rather than substantive action, further entrenching tokenism. Colonial Lexicon Terminology and Perception: The language used in DEI contexts often perpetuates a narrative of dependency rather than autonomy. Terms like "minority," "disadvantaged," "People of Color" and "marginalized" have colonial undertones, suggesting that Black communities are in need of external rescue rather than capable of self-determination and are no considered terms of exclusion for Black American businesses. The Black Business Enterprise (BBE) movement seeks to reclaim narrative power, advocating for terms centered on sovereignty, equity, and empowerment, distancing themselves from other associated negative terms of exclusion. Meritorious Manumission Historical Parallels: The legacy of practices like Virginia's 1710 Meritorious Manumission Act—where freedom was granted to enslaved individuals who betrayed their communities—mirrors modern scenarios where individual Black leaders or figures might prioritize personal or selective group advancement over communal upliftment, thus continuing a divisive legacy. Dilution of Diversity Broadening Scope, Narrowing Impact: The civil rights movement, largely a Black struggle, has over time seen its benefits diffused across various groups, often leaving Black Americans at the economic bottom despite their pivotal role in these fights. This has led to a scenario where other demographic groups, including those historically aligned with power structures, have benefited more from policies originally aimed at rectifying Black disadvantages. Politicization of DEI Divisive Political Tools: DEI has become a battleground for political ideologies, often used to rally Black votes without corresponding policy changes that would address Black economic stagnation. This politicization has diluted the effectiveness of DEI, turning it into a slogan rather than a strategy for systemic change. Black Gatekeepers Internal Barriers: The presence of Black individuals in high places has not always translated into broader community upliftment. Sometimes, these gatekeepers operate within frameworks that favor individual or small group gains, echoing historical patterns where personal advancement within oppressive systems was prioritized. Certification Disparities Exclusion from Economic Opportunities: Despite millions of Black-owned businesses, less than 1% hold any form of minority and other non-Black organization led certification, locking them out of government and corporate contracts that could drive economic growth within the community. Moving Away from DEI DEI's hollow promise is evident when we assess the lack of tangible progress against the backdrop of lofty intentions. The critique here is not merely to highlight failures but to pivot towards a new paradigm where Black economic liberation is not just an outcome but the central focus. The BBE Certification: A New Paradigm Vision and Mission The Black Business Enterprise (BBE) Certification and Scorecard Program emerges as a transformational initiative, spearheaded by national Black business organizations through the National Alliance for Black Business (NABB) and its partners. This initiative is designed to correct the economic disparities that DEI programs have largely failed to address. It is built on the foundational principles of Black self-determination, economic empowerment, and a clear rejection of dependency narratives. We are moving beyond allowing non-Black led entities, agencies, programs, and initiatives to create economic platforms and dictate our progress, which we see as a core reason behind the shortcomings of DEI. Too often, white-led or other externally created groups have been positioned to speak for Black-owned businesses, sidelining Black professionals, leaders, and entrepreneurs from the DEI power structures. With the BBE Program, we assert that Black people will no longer answer to white-led programs, entities, or minority groups that are closely aligned or assimilated into white systems, institutions, and structures that do not genuinely value Black entrepreneurship or the advancement of Black communities. This program is a step towards autonomy, ensuring that the economic narrative and empowerment of Black businesses are owned and controlled by Black leadership for the benefit of Black communities. Key Components: Certification: Focus: Target businesses with at least 51% Black ownership qualify, ensuring that the benefits directly impact Black entrepreneurship. Market Access: Certification opens up exclusive opportunities in sectors where Black businesses have traditionally been underrepresented. Scorecard: Transparency and Accountability: A digital tool that tracks and reports how corporations and government entities engage with Black businesses, promoting equitable spending and partnerships. Proven Results: 3-Year Pilot Success 2022-2025: The initiative has already shown promise through the National Black Supplier Development Program, securing $150 million in contracts with major companies like GM, Ford, Stellantis, Toyota, Magna, DTE Energy, Comerica Bank, and Cummins and a growing list proving its potential to alter economic landscapes. Strategic Implementation: Launch and Expansion: The official launch at the 125th Quasquicentennial National Black Business Conference in Atlanta, GA, will serve as a platform to not only introduce BBE but also to mobilize the Black economic freedom movement through the "Digitize 1 Million Black Businesses by 2028" campaign. Cultural Shift: BBE aims to shift the narrative from inclusion within existing systems to the creation of new systems where Black communities dictate the terms of engagement, fostering an environment of economic sovereignty. Call to Action: The era of waiting for external validation or inclusion ends with BBE. Dr. Ken L. Harris emphasizes, "Our liberation will not come from external validation but through our own hands, guided by our own vision." This new paradigm calls for a collective reimagining where Black business isn't just part of the economy but is a driving force of innovation, wealth creation, and cultural stewardship. Final Statement: The BBE represents more than just a business certification; it's a strategic move towards economic liberation, challenging the status quo of DEI with a model that prioritizes Black economic power, self-reliance, and community wealth-building. This initiative is not just about correcting past failures but about paving a new path where Black economic prosperity is not just possible but inevitable. About the National Business League (NBL)®: Founded in 1900 by Booker T. Washington, is the nation's first and largest national trade association for Black businesses in the United States. NBL is dedicated to advancing economic equity for Black businesses. Visit www.nationalbusinessleague.org. About the National Alliance for Black Business (NABB): Co-founded in 2022 by The National Business League, National Black Chamber of Commerce, and The World Conference of Mayors and now more than 100+ new members, NABB unites various Black organizations to promote growth and prosperity for Black businesses. Visit www.nationalallianceforblackbusiness.com. PR Newswire Link: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-demise-of-dei-a-new-dawn-for-black-economic-autonomy-with-the-inauguration-of-black-business-enterprise-bbe-certification-echoing-booker-t-washingtons-legacy-302358365.html 1
ProfD Posted January 29 Report Posted January 29 Excellent read. As much as we can debate that race is a social construct, there is no denying that is pervasive aspect of society. In maintaining the system of racism white supremacy, without exception, white folks are winning the race. Black folks could never rely or depend on the white hand which belongs to someone who has always been two-faced. Malcolm X taught us not to trust white folks back in the 1960s. But, like so much of our history and lessons, we have failed to heed the messages. Unfortunately, it often takes the worst of conditions and/or the most horrible circumstances or a catastrophic event to wake people up and/or motivate them to take care of themselves. Until civilization totally collapses, it's not too late for Black folks to course correct. White folks already have a 500-year head start. We cannot depend on the benevolence of white folks; neither their people nor their political parties and institutions. The harshest reality is that there are plenty self-serving Black folks among us who could not care any less about our race. Now is the time for Black folks to get on code; roll up their sleeves and get busy doing for ourselves in order to enrich and protect our own interests.
Pioneer1 Posted January 30 Report Posted January 30 Did DEI even HELP us as AfroAmericans? Especially heterosexual Black men? I'm not lamenting the demise of most of these federal "minority" programs because most of them weren't targeted at the people who needed the actual help the most. A large portion if not the majority of most of the so-called "diversity" and "inclusion" programs benefited Caucasians who CLAIMED "minority" status. Most of the so-called "Native Americans" were $5 Pretend-ians with feathers stuck in their blond braids. A large portion were White gays and lesbians who wanted to claim "minority" status. Many Latinos....most of whom are mostly White or half White...were huge beneficiaries of these programs. And when they DID want to hire or include a Black person....it was usually a FEMALE. Many of these corporate firms don't a straight Black dick ANYWHERE NEAR their work space. 2
ProfD Posted January 31 Report Posted January 31 6 hours ago, Pioneer1 said: I'm not lamenting the demise of most of these federal "minority" programs because most of them weren't targeted at the people who needed the actual help the most. Right. It's fairly easy to create a minority group in America. Let a few snaggle mouf folks establish the National Association of Missing Front Tooth NAMFT). It wouldn't take too long before NAMFT gets contracts for all types of toothpaste and dental products, TV commercials, movies, etc.
umbrarchist Posted January 31 Report Posted January 31 (edited) But DEI caused a midair collision that hasn't happened in 16 years! The Preztard said so. He can't be right....er, I mean wrong. . Edited January 31 by umbrarchist Sarcasm enhancement
Chevdove Posted January 31 Report Posted January 31 15 hours ago, Pioneer1 said: Did DEI even HELP us as AfroAmericans? Especially heterosexual Black men? 15 hours ago, Pioneer1 said: And when they DID want to hire or include a Black person....it was usually a FEMALE. Oh no. Don't forget to mention the paper bag test. The DEI movement did not help Black women either. On 1/29/2025 at 10:41 AM, Troy said: The Bitter Truth: DEI as a SCAM: A Stark Reality For Black people, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives have largely been a scam, failing to genuinely address the core issues of systemic racism. Here's the stark reality, backed by evidence, data, and history: Oh WOW!
Chevdove Posted January 31 Report Posted January 31 On 1/29/2025 at 10:41 AM, Troy said: Broadening Scope, Narrowing Impact: The civil rights movement, largely a Black struggle, has over time seen its benefits diffused across various groups, often leaving Black Americans at the economic bottom despite their pivotal role in these fights. This has led to a scenario where other demographic groups, including those historically aligned with power structures, have benefited more from policies originally aimed at rectifying Black disadvantages. On this point, I wonder why Black Americans do not address our inner conflict as well, with regards to Colorism. On 1/29/2025 at 10:41 AM, Troy said: Black Gatekeepers Internal Barriers: The presence of Black individuals in high places has not always translated into broader community upliftment. Sometimes, these gatekeepers operate within frameworks that favor individual or small group gains, echoing historical patterns where personal advancement within oppressive systems was prioritized. Interesting point here and I get the sense that this is addressing issues of Colorism too, however, it seems strange to me that Black Americans do not address it openly either. We allow this issue to be address delicately. On 1/29/2025 at 12:30 PM, ProfD said: Malcolm X taught us not to trust white folks back in the 1960s. But, like so much of our history and lessons, we have failed to heed the messages. I think his message was on point, but maybe it was a failed message because, although he pushed this message, I wonder though did he himself live up to it.
ProfD Posted January 31 Report Posted January 31 12 minutes ago, Chevdove said: I think his message was on point, but maybe it was a failed message because, although he pushed this message, I wonder though did he himself live up to it. Teachers are imperfect people who serve as vessels of knowledge and enlightenment. The shortcomings of man does not invalidate their teachings or messages. If I teach you how to make a million dollars and it comes to fruition but I'm a womanizer and a murderer, I doubt that you would stop making money. Follow and apply the knowledge from lessons learned. No need to follow the man.
Chevdove Posted January 31 Report Posted January 31 2 minutes ago, ProfD said: Teachers are imperfect people who serve as vessels of knowledge and enlightenment. The shortcomings of man does not invalidate their teachings or messages. If I teach you how to make a million dollars and it comes to fruition but I'm a womanizer and a murderer, I doubt that you would stop making money. Follow and apply the knowledge from lessons learned. No need to follow the man. Maybe for some things but when it comes to this issue of race and White Supremacy this concept becomes problematic imo. I never read up on Malcolm X but I was told that he had a serious fetish with White people. So for him to preach to Black people did not go very well in the end. Just like Bill Cosby too. For this kind of message, I believe that you need to be perfect otherwise it does invalidate their teaching and messages, imo. So yes, in some regards, it is good to 'do what they say but do not do what they do' but not for everything.
ProfD Posted January 31 Report Posted January 31 1 minute ago, Chevdove said: Maybe for some things but when it comes to this issue of race and White Supremacy this concept becomes problematic imo. For this kind of message, I believe that you need to be perfect otherwise it does invalidate their teaching and messages, imo. Well, that's impossible because there is such thing as a perfect person. The real reason Black folks do not follow the teaching of Malcolm X or Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. either is because only a small minority of Black folks actually listened to and/or believed in those men when they were relevant. During the 1960s, many Black folks felt Malcolm X and Rev. Dr. MLK Jr. were troublemakers and rabble-rousers and wasting their time. Of course, those same Black people took advantage of the Civil Rights Act and Affirmative Action. Fast forward to the 1990s, it was the same thing with folks like Minister Louis Farrakhan and Khalid Muhammad. They galvanized a couple hundred thousand Black folks out of millions. Not enough to overthrow the system of racism white supremacy.
Chevdove Posted Tuesday at 05:07 PM Report Posted Tuesday at 05:07 PM On 1/31/2025 at 10:12 AM, ProfD said: Fast forward to the 1990s, it was the same thing with folks like Minister Louis Farrakhan and Khalid Muhammad. They galvanized a couple hundred thousand Black folks out of millions. Not enough to overthrow the system of racism white supremacy. We are too divided and being part of the American foundational system doesn't help as this kind of divisiveness stems from these origins. On 1/31/2025 at 10:12 AM, ProfD said: Well, that's impossible because there is such thing as a perfect person. I don't agree that it is impossible for someone to be perfect, however, I think it is a concept and it is all in how perfection is defined with regards to a specific situation or cause. In this regard about 'being a leader and a spokesperson against Racism and WS', therefore, a leader can be perfect relatively speaking. What I mean is that a leader should be chosen and regarded and accepted as a leader if he or she has been married to the movement. In other words, if they are not physically married but part of an organization like the NAACP for years then, they are 'perfect for that role'. Or, if they are physically married to an African American spouse for decades and raise up children in a Black cultural aspect, then they are 'perfect for the role of being a leader'. But for someone to be considered a leader of your culture and married to a person of that very culture that is causing the problem of racism and WS, that is not going to work. Those kind of people can support the cause but not be regarded as a leader. Malcolm X, I am told, had problems with being obsessed with White people, and therefore, he was bound to run into problems, as he did. And also, if a person is actually bi-cultural and part White, then they can be part of the movement against racism and WS, but should not be designated as being the top leader of the movement, this would be imperfection. A bi-cultural person can be perfect for the cause against racism and ws for the movement but not as the top leader. And that is the problem with Obama who is 'bi-racial'. He supported homosexuality as part of his movement and Black Americans did NOT need that to be connected to our troubles! The origin of homosexuality stems from the White race! Furthermore, during his first run for office, Obama plainly stated that he did not agree that Black Americans should get Reparations and he felt it would be unfair to Mexican and Hispanic people if we were to get it. Why in the world would African Americans, then go out and vote for him like they did is beyond my understanding. That is so crazy, imo. Since his presidency, other peoples have gotten significant economical breaks such as in immigration when the flood gates were opened and Asian people received governmental relief too. Obama being 'bi-racial' may have clouded his beliefs on why so many of us African American DOS believe that this government should be held accountable economically in how we are existing in America. I know that you are not a Church going person, but for the sake of this issue of a person having the ability to reach a stage of perfection, mostly all Black Churches also preach that too, in that there is no such thing as being perfect. I know that I am not there yet, but I absolutely believe that it can be done and think that most Black Churches are going to be called down and judged on this issue because they should NOT be behind the pulpit if they profess this 'false teaching'. They pass the offering plate around collect money and preach lies: Gen.17 [1] And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect. GENESIS 17:1. He NEVER would have told Abraham that if it could not be achieved. Perfection can be achieved. It's a process though. But if a person wants to achieve this kind of perfection, I believe that it can be done. Being perfect is a concept though. It doesn't necessarily mean that a person won't make a mistake but, it could mean that if they make a mistake, they have the guts to admit it, and correct it in some way. Perfection is a concept, IMO.
ProfD Posted Tuesday at 05:34 PM Report Posted Tuesday at 05:34 PM 19 minutes ago, Chevdove said: I don't agree that it is impossible for someone to be perfect, however, I think it is a concept and it is all in how perfection is defined with regards to a specific situation or cause. In this regard about 'being a leader and a spokesperson against Racism and WS', therefore, a leader can be perfect relatively speaking. What I mean is that a leader should be chosen and regarded and accepted as a leader if he or she has been married to the movement. Gotcha. You're right. Malcolm X and Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. were perfect for the their respective movement. Right now, the movement against racism white supremacy is small. There are no clearly defined leaders. Part of the reason Black folks lack leadership is because as @richardmurray brilliantly points out, there are many tribes among Black folks. As a result, Black folks have no agenda or goals in overthrowing the system of racism white supremacy. 19 minutes ago, Chevdove said: I know that you are not a Church going person, but for the sake of this issue of a person having the ability to reach a stage of perfection... Interestingly, the system of racism white supremacy doesn't require perfection in its leadership. Murderers, crooks and criminals can run the show.
Chevdove Posted Tuesday at 06:35 PM Report Posted Tuesday at 06:35 PM 41 minutes ago, ProfD said: Interestingly, the system of racism white supremacy doesn't require perfection in its leadership. Murderers, crooks and criminals can run the show. Yep. That's what was used to set up America! 42 minutes ago, ProfD said: Right now, the movement against racism white supremacy is small. There are no clearly defined leaders. Part of the reason Black folks lack leadership is because as @richardmurray brilliantly points out, there are many tribes among Black folks. I think that some of us do not believe that we need leaders, but I do. I've heard some of us passionately speak against the need for a leader and like @richardmurray pointed out we have too many tribes not working together. I think that one of the best examples to support the need for a leader to head up a movement is to look at the lions!!! In nature leaders rise up! You will see that in the lion kingdoms, there is always one main lion that all of the other lions back off and acknowledge as being 'the one who calls the shots' whether or not they go into action! One of my most favorite coalition is the Mapogo coalition, a notorious group of lions that came to dominate a region. OMG! They were so crazy awesome and the lead lion was the Great Makhulu! It was a six group coalition and the reality is that all of those lions could hold their own! Each one of them could be a leader, but they all decided to give the lead to Makhulu who had no problem taking that challenge. And as he showed, sometimes a leader knows when to be the peacemaker and back down because he had problems with the youngest of the group, Mr. T. At one point, Mr. T challenged him for to be leader, and Makhulu did not get upset but backed off. Soon Mr. T took his brother and left and for 2 years, they patrolled a bordering area. But when Mr. T's brother was killed, he went back to Big Mak of whom took him right back in and they continued to make history and fought ferociously to defend their territory. If Black people want to shake off this evil existence under racism and WS, we're going to need leaders. That's nature.
richardmurray Posted Tuesday at 08:42 PM Report Posted Tuesday at 08:42 PM @Chevdove @ProfD great dialog between you two. @ProfD 2 hours ago, ProfD said: there are many tribes among Black folks. As a result, Black folks have no agenda or goals in overthrowing the system of racism white supremacy. Yes, the black populace in the usa, largely because of Black DOSers have an individualism which allows for a much larger range of agendas to exist and thus is harder to bind together. But on the other hand, really gives black people flexibility which has been useful. @Chevdove 1 hour ago, Chevdove said: I think that some of us do not believe that we need leaders, but I do. I've heard some of us passionately speak against the need for a leader and like @richardmurray pointed out we have too many tribes not working together. Not think , you know, and not just believe, insist they know. Individualism is huge in the Black DOS community. Frederick Douglass was an individualist. Many of the other leaders in Black history were tied to specific communities. Garvey/Malcolm were rarities, both were pan Black, they weren't tied to a specific church or religion and pushed to get various black people together. This is the reason why Malcolm's split from the Nation of Islam was inevitable. He love the nation of islam but he didn't think it was the be all end all to black people. His garveyite father never left him in that sense, it is about Pan Black and no black person should be forced into one tribe in the village. This is why Garvey reached out to yella WEB DUbois, who treated garvey terribly. Dubois was tied to the community of europhilic blacks. They speak french and listen to european orchestral music, you know:) So Individualism comes from this, it is the dominant, most common, DOS tradition. And I have recently:) come to a greater acceptance of this. If I think on my words in this very forum, i realized it years ago but accepting it took years:) But going forward, Individualism by default is against a group leader, by default. Chevdove. So as I said to Profd, going forward, I accept the Individualism in the Black DOS populace in the usa. I am a communalist, i always will be, I was as a child. But that doesn't mean most black people have to be. And when you look at Black elected officials, black entertainers, the black one percent, so many of them don't act in a black group, you see Individualism is high as a culture among black people with the most money or influence in the usa. So I argue, and I will try to do the following in my economic corner, and that is to embrace the majority of individualism in the black populace in the usa in assessing the financial, and current events. See your people for who they are, not what you want them to be. And then see how to better them through who they are. I live in a land as a minority , a black nationalist, in a minority, black people in the usa. I have been unable to accept the black populace in the usa today for what it is, because individualism like that is uncomfortable for me. I grew up in a highly positive black communal environment. I am not used to the environments which i think make black individualism more useful or prominant. I think about black people i went to college with who were raised around whites. Who parents were part of religious groups they detest. Or come from countries that they love but don't align with idealogoically. So many black people need individualism growing up. To be the lone black kid in school, to be the black relative not part of the church, to be from the black town in the caribbean or africa and not agree with how they do things there. I am accepting, at least, I will try to:)
ProfD Posted Tuesday at 09:25 PM Report Posted Tuesday at 09:25 PM 25 minutes ago, richardmurray said: Yes, the black populace in the usa, largely because of Black DOSers have an individualism which allows for a much larger range of agendas to exist and thus is harder to bind together. But on the other hand, really gives black people flexibility which has been useful. True. I believe the system of racism white supremacy will rear up in an ugly way and force Black folks regardless of their individualism or tribe to close ranks. 25 minutes ago, richardmurray said: So Individualism comes from this, it is the dominant, most common, DOS tradition. And I have recently:) come to a greater acceptance of this. If I think on my words in this very forum, i realized it years ago but accepting it took years:) Better late than never but our views based on experience hold validity. 25 minutes ago, richardmurray said: See your people for who they are, not what you want them to be. And then see how to better them through who they are. That is the prism of wisdom through which I've been operating for several decades. 25 minutes ago, richardmurray said: I have been unable to accept the black populace in the usa today for what it is, because individualism like that is uncomfortable for me. I grew up in a highly positive black communal environment. I am not used to the environments which i think make black individualism more useful or prominant. It's OK. Black folks and people in general eventually realize their need for each other (community) is greater than their individualism. Hopefully, those individuals have invested in building strategic alliances (relationships) that will be a support system if/when they need it.
richardmurray Posted Tuesday at 09:48 PM Report Posted Tuesday at 09:48 PM @ProfD 20 minutes ago, ProfD said: True. I believe the system of racism white supremacy will rear up in an ugly way and force Black folks regardless of their individualism or tribe to close ranks. definitely possible, we will see 21 minutes ago, ProfD said: That is the prism of wisdom through which I've been operating for several decades. of course you have:) haha the second you came out the womb:)
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