3 Things I Hope We Black People Start Doing

 

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

you have to with other folk and not think twice about it—but won’t support each other. Stop that bullshit, because that is what it is. Other people look at us as if we are all the same, whether we like it or not. So, we should start acting like family.  Yes, it'll seem a little strange at first if you are a loner, but you’ll get used to communicating as you practice.

3.      Choose wisely.  This is for everything and everybody.  Yes, it’s okay to have a variety of friends from all nationalities all over the world.  But make sure that they are friends.  You should be able to discuss the uncomfortable things with true friends.  Things like your Blackness, your history, their history, and the realities of life as they are—then talk about how to make things better.  If they understand, or don’t want to hear truths—then consider those might not be the friends for you. Your tribe, your group will come along.  As the Word says in Philippians 4:6 “Be anxious for nothing…” instead take time to really get to know your people instead of always trying to please them. 

 

For those of you wondering…Yes, I know scripture. (smile) Though I speak with vulgarity at times, the Word is truly a part of me. And I use it often in my writing.  It is what I live by. I’ve made my peace with it. If you are truly offended, then this is not the place for you.  Don’t be fake and act as if you’ve never heard crude words.