As
I have been listening to the aftermath of the 2024 Elections, through it, as throughout
all of history, people bring us up in the mix.
Often the conversation goes into the topics of what we didn’t do
and what we should have done, all while ignoring what we've already done
in support of this American experiment.
It’s
obvious that people are constantly in the affairs of African Americans. Be it
culture, music, religion or just conversation, people discuss (and sometimes
speak for us—when they can’t find their designated mouth pieces, they’ve anointed
to represent us) and tell us what we are thinking as if we can’t speak for
ourselves. It’s time for all of that babbling
to cease. Three things that I hope Black
people start doing are:
1.
Speak for yourselves clearly and often. Even though you may
not get invited to a show or platform that has millions of viewers, use your
own social media to be heard. Disregard the naysayers and criticism. Get your
message and opinions out there! Crude, fancy,
plain or simple. Communicate. People are going to have something to say regardless
of what you do. And although it may appear no one is paying attention, someone
is always watching.
2.
Learn to use your personal power. In 2024, it is time
to hold people accountable for how they are treating you. You don’t have to go along to get
along. Nor do you have to settle for scraps. If others can expand and prosper, so can you.
Learn to work with Black businesses and keep some of the wealth in our
communities. If you are not satisfied with a good or service, then tell that business
what it is you have an issue with—and please let it not just be the “price is
too high” excuse. You’ll spend whatever
