There are only two things that oppressors understand: hands or money. There is nothing else. Trying to appeal to the other side’s hearts and minds has always been a losing strategy. Even the non-violent movement led by Dr. Martin Luther King was a failure from that standpoint. Yes, the movement led to some (paper) systematic changes; however, the racists still kept their belief system in tact while remaining in power and in control for the most part. (It’s also safe to say that while black people were being non-violent in their protest approach, the other side was not so gracious.) I am in favor of taking the economic approach to our problems. Economics has to be the foundation upon which our revolution stands. This is non-negotiable.
While I say all of this, I am not naïve enough to think that economics will solve all of our problems. In our current society, it is often the wealthiest of people who are the most corrupt and manipulative individuals. These people control industries and businesses that push out propaganda that create the narrative that black people are not human beings. As we build wealth we must ensure that we thwart every influence (including money) that makes us into them. Here are some principles I feel we must commit to, to ensure that our wealth-building is value-focused, instead of greed- and control-focused:
Focus on building a solid reputation – This one is important. When it comes to being a steward for our community, we’re only as good as our name (and the actions that back up that name, which I list later). We should always strive to live up to our word. No one likes a sellout.
Live a balanced life – Again, we should be balanced in word and action. We cannot tell others to support black businesses when we don’t support ourselves. We cannot tell others to start a business if we don’t have one ourselves. We must talk the talk AND walk the walk.
Sharing our resources and being generous – We must learn to share and get back to a community-based way of thinking. We don’t have to share only money. We can share time, knowledge, and space. It’s all about building together.
Communicating sensitively – We should not approach our brothers and sisters in anger or unjust reproach. We must also communicate to understand, not to deceive. Our communicated intentions must be in line with our actions to serve.
Becoming moderate in all things – We must understand that money is not our god nor are material possessions. We must also not overindulge in things (e.g., drugs, alcohol, and other harmful things) that do not help us achieve our goals.
Overcoming self-centeredness – We have to move away from the “every man for himself” mindset. We must assist our brothers and sisters who are committed to our common goal, and even assist those who may not be fully enlightened yet, but can get there. Group economics is the focus.
Avoiding destructive behavior – We should not be abusive to ourselves or to others. Encouragement is free and should be given to our people on a daily basis. If someone supports a business, be supportive. Do not make them feel inadequate. We have quite enough of that coming from the others.
Becoming disciplined – We must be self-controlled. We cannot become quick to anger or be easily strayed by others on the wrong path. It is up to us to become the change we wish to see. Others will fall in line without having to be coerced or begged to do so.
These principles will save us from worshiping material and manmade things, as well serve as guidelines for building trust within our community. It is my belief that by following these principles while building wealth, we will not become the melanin version of these power hungry, manipulative oppressors.
Written By: Reka Darn B