Reparations is easiest broken down: Repair Nations. Not speaking from a Christian perspective makes reparations seem selfish. Not speaking from a Nationalist perspective is paramount to wishing to be fixed by someone other than ourselves. Our perspectives are skewed & we're about to launch another "we shall overcome" type movement, marching & looking for additional handouts. Reparations is an issue of self-sufficiency, not finding some new crutch on which to lean.
So, I saw this article through one of my listservs asking the question if President Obama's choice of Supreme Court Justice (Elana Kagan) would finally wake up the Liberals. I don't even think that's an important question.
To me, the bigger question is will his choice finally awaken Blacks (liberal and conservative)? It's like Minister Farrakhan said in his TVOne interview: we need to realize that he will not - cannot - do anything for Black people...not just because of the political repercussions, but (in light of the Tea Parties, Rush Limbaugh and his cronies, and Dan Fanelli - check this crap out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMbPvGSADUg) the real threat of physical reprisals.
Will Obama's choice of Elana Kagan finally wake Blacks up?
Do you all realize that if we don't wake up the Obama Administration will leave office (in 2012 or 2016) and gone will be our chances at advancement? What you think the argument will be once he's gone: "you didn't press the Black President to do this...why you bothering me?"
I feel like Lawrence Fishburn in School Daze: "Wake UUUUUUPPPPPPPPPP!!!!!!!"
We worried about what liberals will think...Liberals ain't made no beef with the fact that there will now be three women on the bench and only one Black - who's conservative BTW. Black liberals have been displeased with Justice Thomas ever since his consideration, and still get nothing.
Will Obama's choice of Elana Kagan finally wake Blacks up?
Don't get me wrong: it ain't Obama's fault. It's our own. We have 32 or so Members of the CBC. They made (and cannot make) any demands. Rather than putting forth NAMES of people and linking with Black organizations to place public pressure for a Black choice, we sit back and wait as if we're entitled. Our comfort has made us forget "Why We Can't Wait!"
We could have at least provided Obama with some cover, so he wouldn't be seen to be "favoring Blacks" as all the racist elements (again, Tea Parties, Limbaugh and Co., etc) waiting in the wings would say. There would at least be some political pressure and potential social unrest that would (at least seem to) force Obama to do something on behalf of his Black constituents.
Will Obama's choice of Elana Kagan finally wake Blacks up?
That's the question we should be asking. Neither Liberals nor Conservatives, nor Greens nor any political party has our best interest in mind. And, if we continue to wait for the benevolence of historically malevolent groups, we deserve the injustice which follows.
Reparations requires us to take hold of our own destiny. Wake up...it's too dangerous to be caught sleeping!
With the election of the first "Black President," comes with much election and so many expectations. Not only in America, but also across the African (and entire) world people have hopes that this will mean something.
See highlights of the watch party at Ebenezer Baptist Church:
I too am excited - albeit cautiously. I guess it's as Congressman John Lewis said in this clip: the election of Barack Obama is not the promised land. And, while we celebrate this true milestone in the development of our Country, I want us to keep our eyes on the prize.
Don't think that the mere election of a Black man means all is well. Reparations means recognizing the value of a Black President. And the question remains: is President-Elect Barack Obama black like me, American like the rest or a new American? What should he be? What will he be?
There are some Blacks who would like to believe that because we have a "Black President," we will finally see our "fair shake" in this Country. There are some who believe that there will finally be due attention paid to the racial disparities in America. There are some who see President-Elect Barack Obama as a "magic bullet" - a savior or sorts, who will make everything better. There are some of us who hope (and expect) him to be "Black like me."
In theory and in truth, there is (and never will be) a "Black President." In theory (but not in truth), there has never been a "White President." The President is - and always will be - constrained by the majority (Government by the People). The majority is White. So, the President will always be directed by the whims of the majority - of White people.
So, will President-Elect Barack Obama be "American" like the rest? Will he continue the status quo? He speaks of how improving education for all will ultimately benefit Black Americans. Will he continue this naieve approach of trickle-down policies in education (and other programs) that he so detests in economics?
Or, will we see a New American? The Obama campaign has shown a coalition of the races, genders, sexualities and other dividing lines. He was able to unite them to head in one direction. Can this new American spirit translate to eradicating racial disparities in this Country?
This later option would be the best. But, it cannot happen without our (Black) effort. We cannot sit back and expect that President-Elect Barack Obama will be able to be the Black man we want him to be. We cannot sit back and allow President Obama to maintain the status quo. But, if we shrink back into political dormancy that is exactly what will happen...majority rule dictates that.
Freedom is only a part of Liberty. Freedom can be given, but Liberty must be taken. And, to this day we have failed to seize hold of Liberty. The only hope is in a New America where everyone embraces Liberty and has a stake in the American Dream, and - Black people - we cannot let this moment pass us by.
America - and the idea of America (Liberty - not imposition of any kind) - is the hopes of all the people in all the world. Just look at the celebration in Kenya:
Seeing a Black man rise to the highest seat of power in the world is truly inspiring. And, one can only imagine what Africans in every corner of the Continent must be thinking. We hope they do not think that President-Elect Barack Obama will be "Black like them" and immidiately address their concerns - allowing them to continue in lack-luster governance and corruption. We hope the leaders of African Governments do not sit back and allow the continuation of the status quo that heaps arduous interest rates on the backs of impoverished countries and uses "humanitarian aid" as a means by which to subject countries to the "Will of the West."
The best option would be for a "New American" President Obama...one who empowers nations to embrace Liberty and self-sufficiency. But, it will be incumbent upon the nations of the world to embrace the ideals of Liberty and call upon those ideals to create not only a more perfect Union, but also a more perfect world.
Make no mistake: President-Elect Barack Obama is not our reparations. But, we have been presented with an opportunity to seize hold of Liberty...around the world, it is ours for the taking.
Ok, the crazy is definitely coming out...proving that reparations is still needed.
As I've said, reparations is more about repairing peoples' minds - so that we can think clearly and rationally. There is nothing rational about this:
Here's the original report:
But upon further investigation, we learn that it was all a hoax.
A HOAX!!! What?
The report states that Ms. Todd told multiple stories. She failed a lie detector test. And, the "B" that was carved into her face is backwards - as if done while looking in a mirror. They charged Ms. Todd with filing a false police report. They should also charge her with "Conspiracy to Incite a Riot," don't you think?
Minds need to be repaired!
You mean to tell me that this girl bludgeoned herself and mutilated her own face? That's crazy! And, she did it in order to fuel racial tensions. She blamed the stereotypical "Big Black Man." That's why Ashley Todd should be charged with "Conspiracy to Incite a Riot." Do you remember Emmitt Till?
This is what he looked like after being accused of whistling at her:
If this was the result of a Black man being accused of whistling at a White woman, what do we think would happen to a Black man accused of attacking & mutilating a White woman?
Ashley Todd's actions were reckless. And, to go to such lengths over the election only demonstrates the climate. No - to be against Obama is not necessarily racist. But, to frame a Black Man as Ashley Todd did is explicitly racist. And, such lengths imply that minds need to be repaired.
We have work to do. Come and Get Your Reparations!
At times, you'll hear people arguing against reparations. They'll say: Reparations aren't needed...this stuff happened so long ago. Why can't you people just get over it?
Well, here's a retort: "why can't you people just get over it?!" It seems as if there's still need for repair on both sides of the color line. Did you see this:
Obama Effigy Hung From Noose
It seems to me that reparations is still needed. Minds still need to be changed. Christianity is supposed to be a religion of love. Yet, still our beloved faith is perverted by those who would use it as a bludgeon to oppress others. Christ calls us to be reconciled, one to another in love. Yet, this gentleman spews his hate. As Dennis Brown said: "Love and Hate Can Never be Friends"
Dennis Brown 'Here I Come'
Here folks, is your proof that reparations is still needed. All we need is to look at the anger and hatred that is being uncovered by the prospect of a "Black President." Just like an unhealed wound, Obama's candidacy is the curious child picking at a scab...the wound now throbs with pain.
If we are to truly see CHANGE in America, we must begin "Taking Steps Towards Reparations." If we do, we will reap beautiful fruits. Let's get to work - for the sake of our Country.
When people can find no other way to express themselves than this, does it not scream for Reparations?
Reparations is not simply for the victim. Or better, the victim is not simply the oppressed. The oppressor (and descendants of the oppressor) are also victimized. In many cases the oppressor's victimization is worse, for the oppressed at least know they've been victims. The oppressor walks around arrogantly, thinking nothing is wrong with them while spewing their hatred.
Many of you know I am hard on Barack Obama. And, I will continue to be - not because I dislike him...I have nothing against him: I've actually met him and think he's a nice guy. My issue is not with him...my issue is with us - Black people.
My criticism is because we cannot afford to simply rubber stamp any candidate - including a Black one. Yet, in the absence of any real choice (any choice that the majority will research) - and being faced with the lesser of two evils, it's a catch twenty-two. Do we elect the Black candidate (lesser) and at least have a Black man? Or, do we vote against the Black candidate (lesser) and prevent America from blaming Black people for the mess that will come, regardless of if it's McCain or Obama?
To achieve reparations requires us to make tough choices that may seem far fetched. But, that's the reality.
Yet - as I say constantly - I am race-first...not anti-anyone. But, I understand that of all Americans - Black Americans have long been furthest from the Cause of Liberty. And, ultimately Liberty is what we want. So, I must think thus: what puts us closer to the path of Liberty?
Honestly, the best thing would have been for Senator Obama to have lost the Democratic Primary. For or goal is to "capitalize on the new American political landscape." The problem is as Brother Malcolm said:
The black man in North America was sickest of all politically. He let the white man divide him into such foolishness as considering himself a black "Democrat," a black "Republican," a black "conservative," or a black "Liberal"...when a ten-million strong black vote bloc could be the deciding balance of power in American politics...
Right now, Blacks are stuck in the Democratic Party. Not because we necessarily agree with their platform, but essentially because that's what we know. We don't challenge either Party on issues of particular concern, specifically to the Black Community. We simply accept their "cookie-cutter policies" hoping that one day 'ole massa will do right by us!
If Obama had lost in the Primary - if Hillary was allowed to steal the election, maybe Black people would have awakened to a new sense of awareness: neither Party has the interests of Black people at heart...neither has a solution. Maybe if he had lost, the stranglehold of the Democratic Pary would have been loosened, and we would have begun to challenge all Parties to speak to our issues. But, he won...so we move forward.
And, still hoping for a political awakening forces me to realize that only an Obama victory even has the potential to fulfill that goal. For, if he were to loose, the only thing we would do is blame racism - specifically Republican racism. This, in turn, would deepen our blind allegiance to the Democratic Party - leading us further down the road to serfdom.
This is why Obama must win. Or, maybe herein lies yet another angle for why he must not? What do you say?
I fear that a Black president would be an excuse for some to say, "We've paid our debt," and to avoid the much harder work.
Today we commemorate the 45th Anniversary of the so-called "I Have a Dream" speech. I say "so-called" because the speech was over 2/3 complete before Dr. King starts speaking about a "Dream."
Forty-five years ago, Dr. King mounted the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to demand justice. As he said, he came to "cash a check." Forty-five years ago he said, "when the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to every American was to fall heir.
"This was a promise that all men would be guaranteed the inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, which has come back marked "insufficient funds." But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation."
Watch and listen to the speech as you read on:
Forty-five years ago, Dr. King did not simply espouse a Dream where "little Black boys and Black girls will be able to join hands with little White boys and White girls and walk together as sisters and brothers." Racial reconciliation is the culmination of this Dream. But, in Dr. King's "Dream" this reconciliation cannot happen until this nation rises up to "live out the true meaning of it's creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal."
You see, Reparations will help us to realize the Dream.
We will not all be created equal until the child born in the ghetto has the same chance to achieve greatness as the child born in the suburbs. We will not all be created equal until a Black person going to a hospital has the same chance of survival as the White person in the same hospital. We will not be created equal until "Black Culture" is part and parcel of American Culture, and not treated as some sort of "sub-culture."
Reparations will help us to realize the Dream.
The dream is not realized simply because a Black man stands as the Democratic Nominee. And, the "fierce urgency of now" is this: the opportunity for us to make progress on overcoming racial disparities is slipping away.
You hear pundits, preachers and politicians alike declaring that this moment marks the "Post-racial" era. They want you to believe that Obama's nomination will open the flood-gates of opportunity for Black people. But, the National Urban League tells a different story.
Take the housing crisis for example. Urban League President Marc Morial states:
In fact, according to 2006 Home Mortgage Disclosure Act data, more than 50 percent of blacks received subprime loans compared with less than 18 percent of whites.
People will use Senator Obama's nomination (on the Anniversary of the "I Have a Dream" Speech) as a testament to the "progress" that's been made. They will all be proud of the "Color Blind Society." But, United for a Fair Economy states in their "State of the Dream 2008" report:
Because people of color are disproportionately poor, many individuals will be helped by some of the proposals. But the "color-blind" nature of the policies will not have any effect on closing the racial economic gap. In fact, race is conspicuously absent from the Democrats' agenda.
Reparations will help us to realize the Dream. Affirmative Action has failed us. And, Black Presidential candidates are not the solution. Yes, it feels good. But, feeling good "don't pay the bills."
Those who have read the entire text of this "I Have a Dream" speech realize that he's arguing for a form of reparations. Yet, while we compare Senator Obama to Dr. King on this (now doubly) important date in history, we're faced with the fact that Senator Obama is against reparations. He says:
If we have a program, for example, of universal health care, that will disproportionately affect people of color, because they're disproportionately uninsured," Obama said. "If we've got an agenda that says every child in America should get — should be able to go to college, regardless of income, that will disproportionately affect people of color, because it's oftentimes our children who can't afford to go to college.
Yet, United for a Fair Economy says again:
Moving everyone one rung up the ladder won't change the fact that those on the lower rungs are disproportionately people of color.
And, those on the lower rungs will continue to be on the lower rungs...moving the ladder up higher doesn't manifest equality - only a higher standard of inequality.
Tonight, you will hear them speak of racial progress. Yet, as Bill Reed points out:
White households’ average net worth of $468,200 is six times that of black households’ $75,000. Blacks’ plight is not being represented in political parties’ platforms and if nothing is done to accelerate black progress, it will take blacks 6 years to close the high school graduation gap, 71 years to close the disparities in college graduation and 581 years to close gaps in per-capita income gap and 1,664 years for the one in home ownership.
If you haven't seen enough, here are some more sites:
All of this, and they lull us to sleep by saying that Barack Obama is the realization of Dr. King's Dream.
Now, my problem is not with Obama. This is the mainstream and the media using this situation to their benefit. This is the mainstream using this historic moment as another opportunity to further neutralize the political power of the Black community.
Reparations will help us to realize the Dream.
Forty-five years ago, Dr. King did not speak out simply so that Black men could run for President. Dr. King spoke out demanding equality. So, I say to you today, my friends, that the dream is yet to be achieved. I say that we still have much work to do. I say, go ahead and support Obama if you like. Yet regardless of your choice, to realize the dream we must become vigilant. We must organized if we are to protect ourselves from those who will day that "racism is dead."
In a 2004 questionnaire, Senator Obama told the NAACP, "I fear that reparations would be an excuse for some to say, 'We've paid our debt,' and to avoid the much harder work."
Well, I agree. And, I fear that a Black president would be an excuse for some to say, "We've paid our debt," and to avoid the much harder work." So, let's get to work!
A few days ago, the UHURU Movement challenged Senator Obama at a rally in St. Petersburg, FL. Here's the video:
Reparations will address specific Black concerns. Senator Obama will not address the concerns of the Black Community, until more of us challenge him as these brothers did. In order for us to challenge him, we must have an agenda. And, once we challenge him we must be able to hold him accountable for his response. Here's the link to some more background on his response, from SleptOn Magazine.
Reparations will address specific Black concerns. We can expect no political figure - Black/White/Other - to think about the Black Community until we force the issue. On our Google Group, we invite you to help us put together a viable program for reparations.
Reparations will address specific Black concerns, but we are the ones who must develop the plan. Let's see if you have some ideas to move this forward...
Last night, we were to discuss the Rising Tide Theory and Senator Obama’s stance on reparations.In our response, we called Obama’s position naïve.Well, some people have considered our response a bit harsh and unfair to Senator Obama.Some say that we ought to wait until he wins the election before we start making demands.So, to address this issue we scheduled last night’s Reparative Talk Radio program: “Does a Rising Tide Really Lift All Boats?The Obama Doctrine.”
We were all set to discuss the issue and present the foundation for a viable reparations plan that could be promoted by a presidential candidate.I think it is quite possible to extend such a tax exemption for the same amount of generations as were enslaved (i.e. four generations of slaves = four generations of exemption).What do you think?If you don’t mind, would you enter your thoughts here?
Yesterday, technology struck: difficulties with our internet service precluded us from completing the show.So, I would like to apologize to all of you for the confusion and hope you will continue to support our efforts.
Ok...if you read the blogosphere you'll see many people outraged that Obama has voiced his opposition to Reparations. Now, I definitely understand why he made that stance. As Jeremiah Wright said, "Barack Obama is a politician, and he does what politicians do." How can we believe that he would say anything different?
Now, what Senator Obama says sounds nice. And, frankly as US President that is the most we can - and should - expect him to say. Nevertheless, we must understand that in this instance a rising tide may raise all boats, but some boats will still be sinking.
Black people are at a disadvantage. Those in the race of capitalism do not need any head starts. If indeed the race goes to the swift, why not find ways to put everyone at the same starting point and let competition determine who wins?
Yet, I am not one to call for greater government intervention into the affairs of Black People. I believe that greater intervention comes at the detriment of our community. Ultimately, the solution will come from within ourselves. Especially being of the minority, there is no way that the Federal Government will ever do anything for the distinct benefit of our interests.
We must remember, Senator Obama is running for President of America...not of Black America. And, he will not do anything specific for Blacks simply because he's Black. The only way he will be justified in doing anything specific for Blacks is if the Black Community is active and engaged, forcing Obama to address our concerns.
The best response for obtaining reparations comes from the Late Emperor of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie:
The people themselves must come to realize their own difficulties in the development of their community and try to solve them by collective participation following an order of priority and taking their potentiality into account.
It is well known to you all that recognizing one's problems and striving hard to challenge them is a mark of an attempt at self-sufficiency. Self help in the benefits to be acquired through education, will save the individual from asking someone's assistance.
It is our responsibility to do the work necessary to obtain reparations. To be fixed by someone else would only replace one form of dependence with another. So no, I do not want Senator Obama to endorse a government sponsored reparations plan - not yet. We're not ready...and frankly that would let society off the hook. But, I will say that the Senator's public statement is quite shortsighted.
Today, I read a blog posting by Washington Post Blogger Darryl Fears. And, it is funny that even among our so-called leaders we see crabs in a barrel being displayed. But, there is hope.
Reparations will neutralize the crabs in the barrel. No more will you have to look over your shoulder for the Lamb Chop Sing Along Negroes trying to cut you down. Once we dispose of these misleaders, we will be able to see progress regardless of political persuasion.
Frances Rice is a prime example of why we (so far) must be proud of Condoleeza Rice and Colin Powell. Her and I actually had an "e-argument" over the Obama issue (read it here). Despite their stature, they have refused to be used as a pawn against their people. Many believe Colin Powell will officially endorse Barack Obama - eventually.
And, Condoleeza Rice has raved about his candidacy and what it means.
Yet, we continue to be our own worst enemy. Using promises of self-gain, "the man" always searches for one of us to sell out and serve as validation for their attacks. And, some of us oblige...
Reparations will neutralize the crabs in the barrel so that we can finally understand how that "rising tide raises all boats." Reparations will neutralize the crabs in the barrel so that we might finally see some progress in the Black Community.
This is an important Independence Day Meditation. Happy Fourth of July...Part One of a two-part revolution for the promise of America.
We all must realize the attack on our freedom...the questioning of our allegiances. People need to understand the asinine nature of the debate. Earlier this week, Barack Obama gave a speech defining his patriotism. Defining his patriotism?!
Reparations will define our patriotism!
How can anyone with sense question the patriotism of Black Americans? At a bare level, why are we still here? After enduring the horrors of slavery, the nightmares of Jim Crow, and enduring racial disparities, why would we still be here - but for love of Country?
Why would anyone fight to be accepted by a Country and a Government - but for love? Who would engage in nonviolent struggle against their enemy? And, even if it had been your enemy...how could one face an enemy with nonviolence - but for love? Would that not truly embrace the command of Christ?
Reparations will define our patriotism! Once you and I seize opportunities to engage in dialogue about the struggles of our people, we will demonstrate our patriotism. The very experience of being Black in America is the definition of our patriotism.
There were African people involved at every stage in the development of this Country. Africans fought in the American Revolution. Africans (mulatto Alexander Hamilton) signed the US Constitution and made great contributions to the organizational structure of this Nation. And while it may be difficult for most of us to remember our ties to these early events, the connection is there.
While we may not have come in to Ellis Island, we were imported from Africa, landing at port after port along the American Seaboard. And, we are the only immigrant class who did not leave in search of a better life. Yet, we are still here...we must love our Country!
Our patriotism was earned in the horror of the slave, through the bludgeoning of the average Black man trying to support his family. Our patriotism is soiled in the blood of those Black Martyrs who gave their lives that the Constitution might belong to us, their heirs. Our patriotism was won, simply by surviving against a government and private sector system trying its best to exploit and/or suppress us. Our patriotism was given to us by those ancestors who had nothing more to give than their struggle to become fully American. Our patriotism embraces Juneteenth as Part Two of America's journey to embrace and embody the ideals of the Declaration of Independence, and the US Constitution. Our patriotism it unquestionable, and is above reproach.
Reparations will define our patriotism as we embrace our particular American Experience. We will never satisfy White people based on their idea of patriotism. But, we have a different American Experience. And, all of us our entitled to set our own standards.
Tonight, we had an amazing Talk Show! The topic was: "The Value of a Black President."
Many people have asked, "why are you bringing up these issues now? Can't this wait until after Barack is elected?
Well, like Dr. King, let me tell you Why We Can't Wait:
...We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now. In this unfolding conundrum of life and history, there is such a thing as being too late...Life often leaves us standing bare, naked and dejected with a lost opportunity. The tide in the affairs of men does not remain at flood - it ebbs.
Or, as Mos Def said: Tomorrow may never come...for you or me this life is not promised.
Reparations means recognizing the true value of a Black President. And, that value is only measured by the impact on the Black Community. For, if a Black President has no impact on the Black Community, then that president might as well just be a president.
Achieving our reparations means recognizing the true value of a Black President. And, that value lays in the opportunity that a Black President affords the Black Community...the opportunity for political empowerment - because as Brother Malcolm X said, "the cornerstones of America are politics and economics." The value of a Black President lays with the possibility to inspire Black Youth, to give peace to our Black elders and galvanize the rest of us.
We are not out to derail Obama's candidacy. And, is there anything wrong with trying to use this season for the benefit of the Black Community? Is there something wrong with using this opportunity for the benefit of Black People?
White women have it clear. They understand the value of Hillary's campaign. They understand that her candidacy served to inspire them to believe that the "glass ceiling" can - and will - be broken. And, they are using her candidacy to force both Obama and McCain to address their issues and actively court their votes. What's wrong with us? Reparations means recognizing the true value of a Black President.
I have been debating on how I would frame this posting. And, have concluded that the best way would be to simply quote a passage from The Autobiography of Malcolm X.
The black man in North America was sickest of all politically. He let the white man divide him into such foolishness as considering himself a black "Democrat," a black "Republican," a black "conservative," or a black "Liberal"...when a ten-million strong black vote bloc could be the deciding balance of power in American politics...
Reparations means capitalizing on the new American political landscape. With the nomination of Barack Obama, we are seeing the truth of this statement. And, that truth is becoming manifest in a new American political landscape.
For decades the "Battle Map" has been the same, with Republicans and Democrats fighting over the same states every year. As we listen to news reports, we hear of Obama's 50-State strategy. They say his strategy is possible because Senator Obama's base is not the traditional base (Hillary's "Hard-working Americans"). His base is comprised of young (& new) voters and Blacks. Because of the large numbers of Blacks that are turning out, Senator Obama is able to expand his electoral map allowing him to be competitive in the South, on the East Coast, and out West.
Reparations means capitalizing on the new American political landscape. And, it is time for us to organize so that we can assert our prowess. Brother Malcolm continues:
The polls are one place where every black man could fight the black man's cause with dignity, and with the power and the tools that the white man understands, and respects, and fears, and cooperates with...If a black bloc committee told Washington's worst "nigger-hater," "We represent ten million votes," why, that "nigger-hater" would leap up: "Well, how are you? Come on in here!"...Why else is it that racist politicians fight to keep black men from the polls?
There is no excuse for our Community to be in such a sorry state. No amount of racism can deter the will of an organized, cohesive black vote bloc. He continues:
Whenever any group can vote in a bloc, and decide the outcome of elections, and it fails to do this, then that group is politically sick. Immigrants once made Tammany Hall the most powerful single force in American politics...America's black man, voting as a bloc, could wield an even more powerful force.
With growing disparities on the basis of race, with shortcomings of and injustices in American Society magnified on the basis of race, we must inject our issues into the debate.
U.S. politics is ruled by special-interest blocs and lobbies. What group has a more urgent special interest, what group needs a bloc, a lobby, more than the black man?...The government has departments to deal with the special-interest groups that make themselves heard and felt. A Department of Agriculture cares for the farmers' needs (neglecting the needs of Black farmers). There is a Department of Health, Education and Welfare (while the health, education and welfare of the Black Community flounders)...There ought to be a Pentagon-sized Washington department dealing with every segment of the black man's problems
With the nomination of Senator Obama, we have the platform by which to bring change to the Black Community. Reparations means capitalizing on the new American political landscape. With the electoral map changing, it will force both Parties to compete on this new landscape of young and Black voters. With both Parties having to compete, we have the opportunity to present our platform and demand that our votes be earned. We must realize what Brother Malcolm said:
The cornerstones of this country's operation are economic and political strength and power. The black man doesn't have the economic strength - and it will take time for him to build it. But right now the American black man has the political strength and power to change his destiny overnight.
Reparations means capitalizing on the new American political landscape. And, we are seeing the potential power of the Black vote. It is on us now to organize. The opportunity has been placed before us. It is for us to seize the moment. So, join us. Become a member of one of the groups to the right =>
On tonight's Reparative Talk episode, we talked about how reparations means recognizing the urgency of now. We have witnessed history. America has at least nominated a Black Man for the Presidency (although Clinton still has not conceded).
Countless of us have said - and now say - we never thought we would see this in our lifetime. How long will it be before we see this again? Why should we wait? The mere fact that we have NO IDEA when this tide will rise again explains Why We Can't Wait (as Dr. King wrote).
So - clearly, reparations means recognizing the urgency of now. And, now, while we have the attention of the media...now, while we have the ear of mainstream society...now, while the Nation is grappling - yet again - with issues of race, we must force the issue and use this moment for "social opportunism" and bring some true benefit to our community.
This is truly an historic time. And, this time calls us to rise to the challenge. As Dr. King said,
We are now faced with the fact, my friends, that tomorrow is today. We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now. In this unfolding conundrum of life and history, there is such a thing as being too late. Procrastination is still the thief of time. Life often leaves us standing bare, naked, and dejected with a lost opportunity. The tide in the affairs of men does not remain at flood-it ebbs. We may cry out desperately for time to pause in her passage, but time is adamant to every plea and rushes on. Over the bleached bones and jumbled residuesof numerous civilizations are written the pathetic words, "Too late." There is an invisible book of life that faithfully records our vigilance or our neglect. Omar Khayyam is right: "The moving finger writes, and having writ moves on."
Reparations means recognizing the urgency of now. And, we cannot allow this urgency to become cliche'. We cannot allow this sense of urgency to be bastardized into a Kumbaya moment...to coalesce into an atmosphere of "we have arrived...we have overcome." Because with the fierce urgency of now confronting us, we cannot be too late. We cannot procrastinate and miss this opportunity. We cannot think there will be another time like this. Tomorrow may never come. Today is all we can see. So, we must seize the day and embrace the time...indeed we must become "caught up in the concept," forcing these issues to be dealt with so that we might see realchange for the empowerment of our community.
"The Black man in North America was sickest of all politically...a ten-million Black vote bloc could be the deciding balance of power in American politics..."
Reparations means Black people must realize their political clout. And, we are seeing the manifestations of that Black vote bloc. It is indeed proving to be the deciding balance of power in this Democratic Primary.
But, we also see that the Democrats do not want to see this power exercised. I mean: look how they repay your loyalty. Black folks have been die-hard Democrats for decades now. Yet, despite the leads held by Senator Obama the Party is still considering overturning the will of the people and stripping the Black man of the nomination. Why is this Primary still going? Just think if a White man were in Senator Obama's position...just think if Hillary Clinton was in Obama's position: how many of you believe this election would still be going?
Do not be hoodwinked. Do not be bamboozled. Do not be run a muck. Reparations means Black people must realize their political clout. And, realizing this power means that we begin to flex our new-found muscles. We need to flex our muscles on those Black Congressmen and women who have overturned the will of the people. As Black Caucus members, they claim to represent the Black Community. But, the Black Community has overwhelmingly chosen Senator Obama. They have not. When their terms are up, we need to put them out of office.
For too long, Black Leadership has stifled the Community to support their own careers. They have been able to do this because Black Leadership has doubted the power of a unified Black vote. They have doubted that the Black Community could stand united. Yet, all across this Country we have proved them wrong.
We have defied the stereotypes and broken the trends. And so, reparations means Black people must realize their political clout. It means we must use that clout for the benefit of the Black Community. You and I have the power to change our community...to empower our people...not to the detriment of another people, but for the benefit of our people. And, that is reparations.
Senator Obama talks about people who cannot wait four more years of the "politics of the past." Well, I am here to tell you "why we can't wait." We cannot wait four more years for a government and political structure to take us into account. We cannot wait for another election cycle for politicians to act as if they care about the Black Community. We cannot wait another moment that will galvanize the Black Community to seize hold of our own destiny.
We must stop looking for the government to do for us. We have to quit expecting these politicians to have our best interests at heart. Now is our time to assert ourselves as an independent people, part and parcel of America, and unashamed of our identity and our people.
We must wake up! Because, right before our eyes we see the Democratic Party begging to find a way to strip this nomination from the Black man. As White Conservative Bill Bennett said on CNN tonight, how do you tell him that he is leading in every dimension - except superdelegates (for now) - and take this nomination away from him? The fact that Black leaders are standing by and watching this happen is astounding. We must take notice.
We must realize our power and use it to change the political and economic landscape for the benefit of the Black Community.
Tonight on Anderson 360, there was a dialogue between Rep. Holmes-Norton (Obama Supporter) and Rep. Tubbs-Jones (Black Clinton Supporter). They were discussing comments by Representative Clyburn calling Bill Clinton's remarks "bizarre." I applaud Rep. Clyburn because he is speaking truth to power. For pundits to state that Obama cannot win the election without the white vote, while suggesting that Clinton could win without the Black vote is a gamble I am confident the Democrats do not want to take.
In the debate between Rep. Holmes-Norton and Rep. Tubbs-Jones, it was suggested that Black people would not hold the Clintons accountable for their blatant racism and race bating.
But, reparations means HOLDING the Clintons (yes, Hillary and Bill) accountable if the nomination is stolen from Senator Obama. The Black Elite are banking on the fickle nature of the Black Electorate. It was even said during the course of debate that Black people will "forget" this and remain committed to the Democratic Party. But, how could you remain committed to a Party that is not committed to you? How can you forget the actions of a Party that clearly state your lack of value?
If we do not hold the Clintons accountable, then we deserve to be mistreated. If we do not hold accountable those Black leaders who support Clinton despite the overwhelming support of their constituency for Obama, we deserve to be abused.
Reparations means holding the Clintons (yes, Hillary and Bill) accountable if the nomination is stolen from Senator Obama. And as the last Democratic President, the Clintons are the Standard Bearers of the Democratic Party. So, ultimately reparations also means holding the Democratic Party accountable if the nomination is stolen from Senator Obama.
We must come to realize that neither Party has our interests at heart. Just at the Republican Party is deemed to be racist, the Democratic Power can now be seen in its "racist glory." The Clintons are so self-serving that they will bloody up Senator Obama so that he cannot win the general election...so that she can run again in 2012. But, to attain reparations we must ensure that the irreparable breach Rep. Clyburn described actually comes to pass.
Reparations means holding the Clintons (yes, Hillary and Bill) accountable if the nomination is stolen from Senator Obama. And, the Clintons are the Democratic Party - so, reparations means holding the Democratic Party accountable if the nomination is stolen from Senator Obama. This breach is the opportunity we need to empower the Community and attain our reparations...because, by this breach we may begin to take a closer analysis of policy and platforms - rather than simple Party Affiliation.
What do you think? How should Party Affiliation impact the Black Community? Can the Black Community afford to be governed by strict Party Allegiance? Chime in on our Reparative Forum. Or, join our Facebook, LinkedIn, BlackPlanet or Plaxo groups. Together we can make advances for political and economic empowerment.
It's funny. In a world where it's taboo for a man to cry, I must admit that this campaign has caused me to tear up on more than one occasion. Today was another such occasion.
Today, Governor Bill Richardson endorsed Senator Obama. And, overtly he had remarkable and beautiful things to say about the Senator. Yet, larger than the language is the symbolism.
Another Clinton supporter - noted Latino community activist Adelfa Callejo - stated that Senator Obama has a problem with Hispanics "because he's Black." There has been a divide wedged by the powers that be to pit Black against Brown, when both of us are in the same boat.
So what is the larger context? Governor Bill Richardson's endorsement is TREMENDOUS! It is a courageous stance…almost as courageous as Barack Obama’s speech. It was a tough move for the Governor to make, but it showed that he’s not afraid of the issue, and is willing to stand with Obama’s appeal for reconciliation and advancement of our Great Union.
We do have separate issues, that must be dealt with singularly. Yet, we do have shared concerns that are best served by a consorted effort. The key is knowing when to join our efforts and when to work on our own.
As a Nationalist, I always have said that we must only stand with those who are willing to stand with us. Governor Bill Richardson showed that he too understands the issues of race in America, and is willing to stand with Senator Obama and not hang him out to dry. With all the history behind the Governor's relationship with the Clinton family, this is a bold move and should be applauded. In the larger context, I see this as the highest profile Brown political leader standing alongside the highest profile Black political leader. To hear him tear up as he made his endorsement made me tear up as well. As a Republican, I wish we had a leader exhibiting that kind of courage on the issues that rest at the core of what hinders our Country from being all it can (and should) be.
So, he - as a Brown man - stood with Obama. Maybe now we can go forward together, Black and Brown, working for change in America and pursuing the perfection of our Country.
Reverend Jeremiah Wright's comments are proving to be the best thing since sliced bread.
Why? Because look at the dialogue that has been forced to the forefront. People in the mainstream are now struggling with issues of race on the world stage, and the Nation is growing.
Reparations is a spiritual thing! And, I remember what Joseph said when he was reunited with his brothers, who had sold him into slavery: "what man intended for evil, God intends for good!"
Man intended the promotion of Reverend Jeremiah Wright's comments for evil. Those comments have existed for years. Now that Senator Obama is about to win the Democratic Primary, they mysteriously appear. "Things that make you go: hmmmm...."
But, we should not become upset about the way those comments came to prominence. Nor should we become upset about the way the media treated those comments. Likewise, we should not become upset by they way the media and pundits are struggling with the issue now that Senator Obama has made a speech.
Why? Because, reparations is a spiritual thing. And, as such this process must play out in the media. We will see the ugly depths to which racism still prevails in America and we will have to confront many issues that still remain unsettled. Because of this confrontation, we will have the opportunity to lay an foundation for healing. At least, that's my naive hope...indeed it is my prayer.
Why? Because, reparations is a spiritual thing. So, let's engage in that dialogue; don't shy away from that dialogue. Let's stand up as free men and let no one tell us with whom we should associate.
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