Red Tails: Operation Repair Nations...the Final Mission

I was listening to the news this morning when @bdkreviews stated that he rated the movie 2.5 out of 5, because the dialogue reminded him of the coon-ish satire: "Don't Be A Menace!" 

How in the world does a movie about real-life heroes remind anyone of the buffoonery displayed in this Wayans' Bros. satire? I don't understand. I challenged @bedreviews on this, via twitter (@Jah_Bread), and he told me he wasn't comparing the movies...just the dialogue. But, I wonder (and asked), even if Red Tails is bad...and I'll determine that tomorrow...how can you conceive of DON'T BE A MENACE as your comparison. @bdkreviews was either trying too hard to be cool, or simply a victim of deep-seeded racism. 

But, see, tomorrow I will watch Red Tails: Operation Repair Nations...the final mission. 

What am I talking about? Well, the producer (George Lucas, i.e. Star Wars) said Holloywood didn't want to fund this movie because of its all-Black cast (see here). Not essentially because they are (overtly) racist. But because they don't feel a movie with an all-Black leading cast would make any money. 

It's as if the Tuskegee Airmen must fly one final mission to prove that they are a worthy part of American History. No one questioned whether Saving Private Ryan would be a hit. Yet, a movie about some other critical war heroes who happen to be Black Americans is seen as "not wort the risk."

I'm going to see the movie tomorrow with my Fraternity Brothers, our families and friends. Good, bad or simply "aiight," we will see and support this movie because it is our history. And, when I say "our" history, I don't specifically mean Black History...although it is indeed that. Yet, it is AMERICAN HISTORY and ought be honored as such. 

If Red Tails is bad, then it certainly will be no worse than all of the garbage that Holloywood consistently puts out. And, certainly, if we can stomach a love story about a War Horse, we should be able to make room for Red Tails...unless America is trying to tell us that a HORSE is more of a hero than Black men! 

Come and get your Reparations!

 

Does ONE "Day of Repentance" Balance 400 Years of Slavery?

They may not like me for this...

Bishop Katherine Jefferts Schori, and others in the Episcopal Church said they hoped I would continue posting about the "Service of Repentance" held on October 4, 2008. I haven't written much, and debated if I ever would. Yet looking at the commemorative pen given at the event, I couldn't refrain from writing this.

The pen says: "Day of Repentance." And, how true that is! And, that's not just my frustration. It's one shared by many, including Dr. Ed Rodman.

Upon reading the pen, I found myself asking: "Does ONE "Day of Repentance" balance 400 years of slavery?"

There has been little to no follow up from the National Church on this "initiative." Yet as she hid her sins for countless years, she hid her sins on that day by repenting in private - rather than out in the open. It seems that the hiding of sins continues, as the Church has done nothing since to make this initiative more than perfunctory.

As I've said before, there are "Three Steps to Healing: Repentance, Reparations & Reconciliation." Yet, if you stop at step one is that gesture really sincere? Or, was it some way to simply appease the "White Guilt" that holds the majority captive?

Does ONE "Day of Repentance" balance 400 years of slavery?

In "God's Long Summer," Charles Marsh states:

Christian love must shape concrete solutions and new visions for the disenfranchised and the poor.

The Episcopal Church - by her own admission - did its share of disfranchising Black people, while supporting and condoning and profiting from the Institution of Slavery. So, how can she feel it enough to throw out an "I'm sorry," while hoarding the gains of her pillage?

The Episcopal Church - again, by her own admission - helped set Black people at a disadvantage. Even her own Black priests were/are set at a disadvantage. How can she then do nothing to bring about true healing?

I've been waiting to see if something more was coming...some committment to building private schools in Black communities, some efforts to bring parity to the pensions of White and Black priests, some committment to calling the Nation to conscience on the racial disparities that still plague our society...some sort of sign that the somber attitude of the actual service had manifested in a change in attitude post-service. I have seen none and so I wonder:

Does ONE "Day of Repentance" balance 400 years of slavery?

I think there's more that should be done. If this is supposed to be ONE church, it seems to me efforts should be made to making it whole. It would seem that, that is what "Christian love" would require?

Come and Get Your Reparations!

Black Like Me, American Like the Rest, or a New American?

What an amazing time in which we live!

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.

Come and Get Your Reparations!

Barack Obama

Black Women & Sarah Palin

In all things there is a silver lining.  Take Sarah Palin...

Many people see her as a strange pick and question her qualifications.  But, there are positives to Sarah Palin.  What are they?  What benefit can be accrued from her candidacy?

Personally, I feel that American can learn a great deal about Black Women from Sarah Palin.  What she has done by choice, Black Women have done for generations out of necessity.  It is rare that Black Women are able to choose between career and family.  And, the womanhood of Black Women has been called into question by those on the Right - who believe a family woman should be at home.  Black Women have also faced attack from those on the Left - who believe a career woman shouldn't be beholden to a family.  (Extreme generalizations, yes - but, a snapshot of the issue.)

While at the RNC Convention, I was asked what I thought about Sarah Palin.  Thanks to Johnnie Morgan out in Cali for finding this clip for me. 

What do you think?  I would love to hear from you!  Come and Get Your Reparations!

Minds need to be repaired!

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 before he was accused of whistling at a White woman:



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!

Ashley Todd, Reparations, Barack Obama, John McCain

Proof that Reparations is STILL Needed...

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.

Come and Get Your Reparations!

Taking Steps Towards Reparations

O God, may we, the Church, by acknowledging manifold sinfulness in the support of slavery and its associated evils, hereby pledge to adopt a new spirit and application for freedom and respect, leading to redemption and reconciliation, and may we, the Church, henceforth and ever, value and love others as we do ourselves.Here from the closing prayer of the opening litany for the Service of Repentance of the Episcopal Church, we find the formula. First we must acknowledge wrongdoing. Then we must pledge to change our ways. Lastly, we must take actions that lead to redemption and reconciliation.

Today, I attended the Service of Repentance at African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas in Philadelphia, PA. Let me start with this: I am a skeptic. One of the things which prevent me from being part of the Western Church is the hypocrisy in its absolute refusal to acknowledge its participation in the sin of slavery. If, we as Christians, are to be reconciled one to another, this denial is the ultimate apostasy, and an affront to the Gospel of Christ.

But, in taking steps towards reparations I must explore possibilities.

So, when I was informed about this "Service of Repentance" I had to see for myself - is it real? And, that remains to be seen. I will say this: I was humbled by the level of self-deprecation in the "Litany of Offense and Apology." With such a profound expression, I couldn't help but wonder if people were really hearing what they were saying.

Bishop Katherine Jefferts-Schori opened the service with these words:

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, we are gathered here to express our most profound regret that the Episcopal Church lent the institution of slavery its support and justification based on scripture, and after slavery was formally abolished, continued for at least a century to support de jure and de facto segregation and discrimination. We gather to repent, to apologize for our complicity in and the injury done by the institution of slavery and its aftermath and to amend our lives, to commit ourselves to opposing the sin of racism in personal and public life, and to create communities of liberation and justice.

To me - this is the basis for why reparations! Again, this is not about money. But, it is about the true Christian work of reconciliation. And, this is the work of the the Church for clearly the Church "lent the institution of slavery its support and justification based on scripture."

So what is the reparative principle? Well for one, it means that the Church now has a duty to work to lend its support and justification based on scripture to ending racism wherever it exists. And, since the Church "continued for at least a century to support...segregation and discrimination," this commitment must not only be confined to "ending racism," but also - and most especially - to combating the disparities caused by the institution of slavery and the legacy of that institution (discrimination), on down to the present day.

In apologizing for her "complicity," the Church cannot simply say: "I'm sorry." As with personal scenarios, an apology proves futile if it is not accompanied by suggestions of what one will do differently in the future. That is taking steps towarsd reparations: having acknowledged wrongdoing, we must work to make things right. It is this "making things right" that helps to both "amend our lives" and "create communities of liberation and justice."

Reparations is absolutely necessary, and is the natural next step. Bishop Jefferts-Schori continued:

Therefore, I invite you to join me in recalling the lamentable events that scar our past and the wounds that continue in the present. Let us seek God's forgiveness that we may be transformed more fully into the Body of Christ witnessing to God's abundant love.

Many folks - especially Whites - on both sides of the color line are afraid to revisit the events of the past. The principle of Sankofa symbolizes one taking from the past what is good and bringing it into the present in order to make positive progress through the benevolent use of knowledge. It is embodied by two different symbols.

I think these symbols are telling. Of course, we look back in order to understand our past and not repeat it. But, we look back in love - and with love, and for love. It is looking back, and taking ownership of what was done that will cause us to be transformed as a people and as a society.

If you are near an Episcopal Church (even if not Episcopalian), I challenge you to approach the Church to see what they have done and are doing in response to Resolution 123A. The question still remains: is it real? Is this going to be more than a perfunctory gesture to superficially absolve the Church in the eyes of men? Or will this be a truly committed effort to attain absolution in the eyes of God?

After speaking with Bishop Schori, I believe it is her intentions to see this be a committed effort. But, only time will tell if other forces will defeat "the best laid plans..." The battle is difficult, for this service was supposed to be held in the spotlight of Washington, D.C. in the National Cathedral. But, objections drove this effort out of the Nation's Capitol to the outskirts of Philly, where it could happen - almost - in secret.

In future pieces, I will further analyze the litany for you - detailing what it means for us as a people. I will also analyze Bishop Schori's sermon, and the striking things she said. As many have said, our hope is that the word "reparations" is no longer seen as a dirty word, but that people would embrace it as a means by which we can all come to be reconciled one to another, by the Grace of God.

Come and Get Your Reparations!

Black People Waking Up? Or, Stupid? Your thoughts...

What do you say?

Come and Get Your Reparations!

Why Did We Not Hear About this More?

And, then look how he tries to use Clarence Thomas to validate his argument.


The only problem with O'Reilly is that Clarence Thomas is Black and he felt as though he was being lynched. We have some waking up to do! What do you think of this issue?

People say, "why can't we just move forward? Why can't people just forget?"

Well, this is a classic example of why we can't move forward, and why we can't forget. And, these aren't just the sentiments of a Black man. These sentiments are shared by President Bush.

Did you hear his comments in the first clip? If you didn't pay much attention to them, please listen again. They're very powerful, and I think they have great application to the Jena 6 mess. What do you think?

Reparations Will Neutralize the Crabs in the Barrel

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.

Come and Get Your Reparations!

Reparations Will Define our Patriotism

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.

Come and Get Your Reparations!

Reparations Will Defeat Racism in the Justice System

Here is an obscure story that you probably will not hear about.

In late 2007, Joe Horn of Pasadena, Texas shot and killed two Afro-Colombian men in a fit of vigilante justice. There's even a blog devoted to him: check it out. Not surprisingly, but tragically, the Grand Jury today chose not to indict the killer. Harris County District Attorney Kenneth Magidson said:

I understand the concerns of some in the community regarding Mr. Horn's conduct. The use of deadly force is carefully limited in Texas law to certain circumstances ... In this case, however, the grand jury concluded that Mr. Horn use of deadly force did not rise to a criminal offense.

Reparations will defeat racism in the justice system. What is the level of deadly force that rises to a criminal offense? And, if Mr. Horn's act did not rise to a criminal offense, what kind of killing is criminal? How can it be self-defense if he shot them in the back? "F" the racial motivations, we are dealing with simple logic.

Here is a man who ignores the instructions of the 911 operator to stay in the house, and goes outside seeking a confrontation. Listen to the call:


Reparations will defeat racism in the justice system. This was premeditated murder. He was not being robbed, so it cannot be self-defense. He was not protecting his own property. And, he was repeatedly warned to not go outside.

When we get our reparations, no one will be able to use nuances of the law to kill Black people. When we get our reparations, we will be able to live without fear of the Justice System. You keep watching like this is a game...next time it could be you on the wrong end of a White Man's gun (civilian or police).

Come and get your reparations!

Reparations Means Taking This Seriously

Ok, I must admit: this is very frustrating.

On May 7, 2008 and April 25, 2008 we discussed this issue. And now, on June 18, 2008, we need to discuss it again. When will enough become enough?

Reparations means taking this seriously. Police brutality is still a pariah in the Black Community. Watch this video:



Did you hear this child's screams? Do you like what you see? I hope so, because we are the ones who allow this to happen. I allow this to happen. YOU have allowed this to happen. If that is not enough, read this. To add insult to injury (no pun intended...well, maybe intended), they ruled that the injuries were unintentional! How could you say the officer used excessive force, but then rule the injuries unintentional? Must be to protect them from further legal repercussions.

Reparations means taking this seriously. We asked you before: What Can We Do to Protect the Community against Police Brutality? We also asked for your help in Building Effective Police Review Boards.

It is our responsibility to defend our community. And, with all the talent and expertise within the Black Community, we ought to be ashamed of ourselves that these problems persist. We have the power to change this dynamic! We have the ability to create an environment where the police serve their rightful purpose of protecting and serving the Black Community, rather than abusing our people.

Why must we continue to cringe when we see the police? Even us - law abiding Black people - flinch when we see those flashing lights. Think about it: does your heart flutter when you see them flashing behind you?

Reparations means taking this seriously. We cannot wait for the Government to do something about police brutality. Nothing will be done. We have to be the ones to force a change. Our ancestors in the struggle for Civil Rights did not wait for the Government to end segregation. They forced the hand of Government. And, they fought so that we - their children - could have greater opportunities. The eyes of our ancestors look down upon us...what will we do?

And so, we must push so that our children will have greater opportunities. We must act now so that our children can play in communities where they live without fear of the police. We must fight for a social climate where the hearts of our children need not flutter at the sound of sirens.

So, again, join our Google Group. Engage the debate. Post your thoughts and together we can change the way police treat our people.

Come and Get Your Reparations!

Reparations Means Recognizing the True Value of A Black President

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.



Come and Get Your Reparations!

Reparations Means Recognizing the Urgency of Now

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 real change for the empowerment of our community.

So, check out our most recent talk show:

Reparations Means Being Proud of Your True (Tri) Colors

More than 80 years ago, a man saw that a people united by racial oppression - through the remnants of slavery, segregation and colonialism, needed a greater unifier. In response to an extremely popular song of 1900, "Every Race Has a Flag but the Coon," Marcus Garvey and the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League (UNIA & ACL) created the "Tri-Colors of Africa" aka Black Liberation/Pan-African Flag. On August 13, 1920 the UNIA adopted the flag in Article 39 of the Declaration of the Rights of the Negro Peoples of the World.

Later in 1921, Mr. Garvey stated the importance stated the importance of a flag thus:

Show me the race or the nation without a flag, and I will show you a race of people without any pride. Aye! In song and mimicry they have said, "Every race has a flag but the coon." How true! Aye! But that was said of us four years ago. They can't say it now...

So, Reparations means being proud of your true (tri) colors. Why should we - a free people - be ashamed of the Red, Black and Green? Why should we - a free people - be afraid to display the Red, Black and Green? Why can we not listen to Steele Pulse and "Rally round the flag...rally round the Red, Gold, Black and Green?



Reparations means being proud of your true (tri) colors. I could not help but think about this recently. As I traveled through the South on my way to the ATL, I saw numerous Confederate Flags flying...White folks proud of their Confederate (treasonous) heritage. There are flags on t-shirts, tattoos, flying on flag poles, displayed on bumper stickers...everywhere you look, you can see Confederate Pride. And in Atlanta - a stronghold of the Gay Community - I see Gay Pride in abundance. Yet, everywhere there is Gay Pride. You have seen it...through rainbow flags displayed on shirts, on bumper stickers, flying out-front businesses and etc. Confederates are not ashamed of their flag...they have pride. Gays are not afraid of displaying their flag...they have pride. But, where is the Black man's pride? Where is the Black woman's pride? Why are we ashamed of the Red, Black and Green? Why is our flag not displayed?

Reparations means being proud of your true (tri) colors. And, the Rainbow Flag - and Gay Community - is a great example. The argument against the Tri-Colors of Africa, is that it does not represent a Nation. But, neither does the Rainbow Flag represent a physical nation. It does unite a people and demonstrate their pride. The Tri-Colors of Africa should unite our people, and demonstrate our pride in our Blackness...it should serve as a symbol of our freedom and a proud display should be a testimony of our freedom.

So, rally round the flag...rally round the Red, Gold, Black and Green!

Come and Get Your Reparations!

Reparations Means Developing a Black Political Agenda

Based on the last posting, we know that attaining our reparations means that we must develop a Black Political Agenda. We must have a platform of issues that will serve as a benchmark for judging the politicians that seek our votes. We must have an organization with the ability to unite the various organizations around that platform. This means that the planks of the platform must be succinct enough to promote a particular agenda. However, those planks must be broad enough to encompass the various ideas and objectives of those in the struggle for Black Empowerment.

Reparations means developing a Black Political Agenda. We must have a framework from which to work when we are screening candidates for elective office. We must have a standard to which we hold elected officials accountable. That agenda will serve as our rudder. Without it, the Black Community lacks direction. And, without direction we will continue to drift out to sea...a long way from the shores of safety.

So, how does this demonstrate what reparations means? Developing a Black Political Agenda will enable the community to guard against political apathy. It will provide us with a means by which we can rate those who have been elected to represent our interests; if they do not follow to planks of the platform, they should be removed from office. A Black Political Agenda will help us determine who should be running for office in the first place. With a solid agenda, we will only promote those politicians who are solid on the issues that are pertinent to our community.

Reparations means developing a Black Political Agenda. With such an agenda, we will be able to assert our interests into the debate. We will be able to dictate how politicians and elected officials interact with our Community.

But, to develop such an agenda we need your help. So, please sign into our Google Group. There you will find a post asking for your suggestions for the Black Political Agenda. We know there are many brilliant minds out there. And, we hope to benefit from your feedback. So, please let us know what you think. Log onto our Google Group and let your voice be heard! Let us shape the Black Political Agenda. Come and get your reparations!

Reparations Means Combating Propaganda

That should be pretty clear.

When we speak to people about the recent Jeremiah Wright Saga, most will say they agree with Wright. However, that is not the sense you see in the "Mess Media." Black pundits have either been whitewashed into a seemingly Black person indoctrinated with the White perspective, or they are (justifiably) afraid of loosing their jobs.

In Message to the People: The Course of African Philosophy, Marcus Garvey says:

The press, cinema, pulpit, schoolroom are all propaganda agencies for one thing or the other...The white man is a great propagandist. he fully and completely realizes the value of propaganda. Therefore, you must organize your propaganda to undo the propaganda of other people; if their propaganda affects your interest...the school book is literary propaganda. The novels and books you read are also literary propaganda, all calculated to bring about certain results beneficial to the propagandist.

So, everything is designed to make us fearful of ourselves. With regards to the Jeremiah Wright saga, DC journalist William Reed says:

The acrimony corporate media created and manipulated regarding Rev. Wright started when their programmers saturated the airwaves with sound-bite clips of Wright sermonizing about the evils of America. When Rev. Wright started his defense, mainstream media’s provocateurs stoked the controversy by over-blowing statements with a stable of black commentators in tow - each professing Wright “didn’t represent their views and blaming him, for, as they saw it, continuing to be an albatross around Obama's neck.

Corporate Media’s endless faintings about “Obama’s pastor problem” illustrates consistent and colluded institutional racism thinly veiled as a defense of American civility and patriotism. Barack Obama does not have as much “a pastor problem" as Americans has a corrupt media problem. The airwaves are filled with "Obama's Pastor Problem" because an irresponsible media pretends that America does not have a race or a division of wealth problem. Black-oriented issues are rarely aired via corporate media.

Reparations means combating propaganda. And, to defend against the attacks of mainstream society we must control our own media...not so-called Black Press, but press which is controlled by Black people. Black Press is largely disrespected and mostly read by Black people - who, themselves, read it superficially. That serves no purpose. What we need is press that is controlled by Black people, which is respected and carries the weight needed to be taken seriously.

Again in Message to the People, Garvey instructs us:

Watch the newspapers, magazines and journals (now TV and Internet) daily for propaganda against your race or your institutions...rush into print immediately a defense of your race institutions and organizations from any attack. Never allow an insult propagated to go unanswered by you. Be ever vigilant to down anything by way of propaganda that dishonors or discredits you.

Reparations means combating propaganda. So, we need to be in a position to defend our independence. That is why I am hopeful to see the launch of the Black Television News Channel. Again from William Reed:

The Black Television News Channel (BTNC) will launch in early 2009 with the nation’s first all-news cable network dedicated to the African American community. Based in Washington, D.C., BTNC is the creation of J.C. Watts, the former Republican congressman from Oklahoma. The network is part of a multi-year carriage agreement with Comcast Cable. Initial distribution will be limited to Philadelphia, Chicago, Detroit, Washington, Atlanta, and Baltimore.

A black cable news network will be a welcome addition to the media world. But, BTNC’s 24-hour news format will be a costly proposition. To satisfy a bourgeois black clientele addicted to mainstream media, BTNC will especially need to put forth a state-of-the-art product. BTNC’s difference, of course, will all be in the perspective it brings to screens. As BTNC brings blacks news from their own points of view, it will stem growth and maturation of black people who will not only be on-air talent but the ones making editorial decisions on what stories actually get covered. Many of those blacks currently forced to prostrate themselves at corporate media altars could become “shot callers” under the Watts paradigm.

Here's a message from JC Watts:


Reparations means combating propaganda. And, to wage a strong battle we need community support. So, I hope you support the Black Television News Channel and other means by which we can control (or at least shift) the image portrayed of our people. Maybe if we can inject our perspective in the debate, people may find black empowerment easier to embrace!

Come and Get Your Reparations!

Reparations Means Embracing Reparations!

Ok, many will wonder: "what's with this title?"

Allow me to explain. In numerous conversations, here is the dialogue: "You know, I agree with what you're saying. " To which I respond, "great! We need you...would you get involved?" And, the answer is usually, "I would but..." You fill in the blank.

Reparations means embracing reparations! We cannot be afraid to take a stand as free men and women. Why should we be afraid of supporting our people? What is fearsome of empowering the Global African Community?

But, many of us are hesitant to put our names on anything pro-Black.

Reparations means embracing reparations! And, pro-Black does not mean anti anyone.

This says a great deal about the need for reparations. The fact - realism - that we as Black people must fear supporting Black people is testimony to the difficult dynamics of race. Many of you have said you do not want to loose your jobs...the very real fact that someone could loose his/her job because of concern for the wellbeing of the Black Community is a testimony to the need for reparations. How can we live free if these are the realities we face?

Reparations means embracing reparations. We can never be a free and independent people if we cannot embrace reparations. Radical Reconstruction was about reparations. The goal of Radical Reconstruction was political, social and economic empowerment of Black people. Yet, that goal was overthrown only to be followed by policies of Black Codes, segregation and integration, neither of which have enabled us to embrace our freedom.

In his best-selling novel, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey speak about the process by which one goes from a state of dependence to one of interdependence. Few will argue that as slaves, we were in a state of dependence...relying on massa for everything: food, clothing and shelter (no matter how meager). Few will argue that the stated goal of integration is an interdependent society. Few will argue against Stephen Covey's theory.

Mr. Covey theory states that to make the choice to become interdependent, one must first be independent, since dependent people have not yet developed the character to be interdependent. So, the first three habits focus on self-mastery...

Now, what is self-mastery if not knowledge of self? And, if it is fearsome to know ourselves...if it threatens society when we as Black people strive to empower ourselves...how free are we? How independent are we? And, according to Stephen Covey, if we are not yet independent we cannot be interdependent. If we are not interdependent, we will never have a mutually beneficial and integrated society.

So, you want to "get along" on your job? You want to provide for your family? Get Yours! Reparations means embracing reparations! And, until we get our reparations we will remain dependent upon White society for our sustenance. And, if we are still dependent we will never be interdependent.

Break free!!! As Bob Marley said, "Emancipate yourself from mental slavery, none but ourselves can free our minds." So, feel free to assert your independence. The world will be a much better place when we do...

Come and Get Your Reparations!

Reparations Means Sifting through the BS

Ok, I really have to ask Black Clinton supporters when is enough, enough.

In a USA Today interview today (Thursday), Hillary says:

I have a much broader base to build a winning coalition on...Sen. Obama's support among working, hard-working Americans, white Americans, is weakening again, and how whites in both states who had not completed college were supporting me.

So, here is the fundamental question: if hard-working Americans are White Americans, is she saying that Black Americans are not hard-working...are (as the old stereotype goes) lazy? Hmmm....

Reparations means sifting through the BS. And, there is not much more to say. Yet while Hillary Clinton calls Blacks lazy, Stephanie Tubbs-Jones is cheezing for the camera in support of Hillary. Hillary insults the race, but Bob Johnson wants to play games of name calling...saying that this (by her standards) lazy American, is only in this position because of his race! Mayor Nutter, despite your hard work to become Mayor of Philly - you sir, are lazy. But, I assume all of them will stand by for their own self-interest.

I can hear Hillary now: we gave these niggers so much, and this is how they repay us! Can't you hear it?

Reparations means sifting through the BS. And, this is ridiculous...I do not even need to speak about it too much. When will the DNC denounce these comments? When will the Congressional Black Caucus defend our integrity? Where is the NAACP, Rainbow/Push, National Action Network, the Urban League, et al?

We need to open our eyes. They speak of colorblind societies, and then we hear this mess. When things get thick, you see where they stand. That is why we must come together. This is our time to break free from the psychology of inferiority and the deference to White society. Now we must live free to stand independently. Find your nearest Black Leader...your nearest Black Clinton superdelegate...demand that they stand for the community.

Come and Get Your Reparations!