If you follow my facebook page then you know at the end of the year I make a list of things that we should leave behind. Well, there are some things that black peple should bring back in 2017. Here is a list
1. Bring back Black Wall Street- Black Wall Street was a time when the black community in Greenwood Oklahoma showed prosperity through economic prosperity, leadership, community involvement, and unity. Although segregated, this was a time when blacks were prosperous and built into their own communities instead of sowing into the businesses of white America.The community of Greenwood was one of the most prominent black communities in the South with black owned banks, businesses, hotels, restaurants,and schools. This all came to an end because of racial injustice, hate, and envy when the town was burned to the ground literally. Over 300 African Americans were killed and 4 blocks of the town were burnt to the ground leaving thousands of people homeless. Considering the USA's new president elect, this is the perfect opportunity for us to become more economically empowered as a community instead of individually. 2. The 90's when we were unapologetically black- Just like the 60's when James Brown sang, "Say It Loud I'm Black and I'm Proud," The 90's was a time when blacks were proud to be black. Being black was commercialized through Malcom X clothing, the popular unapologetically black clothing line Cross Colours, We rocked the continent of Africa on our bodies proud of where we came from. The 90's was a time when HBCUs were glorified and represented. Even black entertainment was Black Entertainment and BET was black owned. We had positive black sitcoms and shows that showed positive images of black people. Now, our community has somehow crossed over to the mainstream and we are constantly conforming to White society and cultures without embracing our own. We no longer strive to have that knowledge of "self" because we are "self influenced" by America instead of empowered by our community. 3. The "It Takes A Village To Raise A Child" mentality and Unity. There was once a time when entire neighborhoods raised the children. During the 60's black families were important. Not only was the black families important and single parenting was almost considered taboo and unacceptable, but everyone in the neighborhood knew the children and watched out for them as if they were their own. Now, everyone has the "It's not my business" mentality and instead of children reverencing adults like they once did their elders children are now disrespectful and the adults turn a blind eye to the problems in the community. Which in my opinion, is why crime is higher today. Our children do not have the same respect we were raised to have for our elders because they are not being taught. In a nutshell what do we need to bring back in 2017? It's quite simple... and can be summarized in the 7 Principles of Kwanzaa:
Im out. XOXO Luvs.
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