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Going off both of your responses... How do both of you feel about Garveyism? Garvey’s movement was the first black attempt to join modern urban goals and mass organization. Subsequent leaders didn't try to create black economic institutions as he had although Garvey had demonstrated to them that the urban masses were a potentially powerful force in the struggle for black freedom. If you don't believe that collaboration with other races is viable, what about collaborating with other Africans outside of the US? I really think Marcus Garvey was onto something with his movement but for some of the reasons I've already posted about it's just not feasible long term. Maybe he is a good example to learn from, both the good and the bad.
I always hear about these "white oppressors" but no one can pin point what individuals are to blame. It's why I say to meet individuals before you pass judgement. I don't deny the systematic racism and white privilege that's in place. However, the dwindling group of racist/ignorant individuals that are left in society are too dumb and don't have the resources to actually oppress anyone (see ninjahood as an example). The only power they have, is derived from poking at black people and getting that reaction out of them. They live for that reaction because they are losers who have to prop themselves up on something, or against someone to feel good about their own inadequacies (again see ninjahood). They're just enjoying their ride on the sinking ship of racism while new generations are purging the hate. The more you clamor about "the same ones" and "fool me once" the more you are proving your own prejudice and predisposition (which I'm not denying you; it's justifiable). We can work together as individuals if we set our prejudices aside. But I realize this is difficult to do for both white and black people.
Also, I'm not saying oppressive white people are extinct. However, those who possess the real power to be oppressive where it really hurts (on a large scale economically) are fading. Although this current administration does not help to support this claim, I believe it to be true from what I observe in my real life every day interactions.
So maybe you're right. Maybe the economic boost should stem more from Garveyism, working within your own culture, and embracing the Pan-African movement more. You COULD do it all on your own, BUT, that doesn't mean you HAVE to pit yourselves against all other races in the process, and just know there are good people willing to help. You shouldn't have to implore them either. They are out there ready to assist. Even the federal government has programs that benefit small black owned businesses and can give them a slight edge in winning contract awards.
I just believe this reparation stuff should start with starting new businesses. Clearly the existing infrastructure is broken. It's broken for me even as a white person and I refuse to continue to play into it. Which is why I started a business of my own. So I could begin to set my own terms on my time, money and life.A separatist business, a collaborative business, whatever. It's about creating new revenue streams than what already exists.
I don't understand everything surrounding this issue because yes, I am white. People likehand2handking who want to place blame, seek revenge and further the divide between blacks and other races don't seem truly genuine when they speak about progress. I see him pit the divide more and make excuses rather than focus his energy on embracing ideas that could lead to economic empowerment.
