U N I T Y (previously published in 2019)

#Unity: is that even possible for Black people born and raised in America? Sigh. As stated in a previous post, not only do miniscule things like colorism divide us, but one of the biggest divisive elements is our religious beliefs.

There was a community meeting I put together in 2017. The main topic was group economics along with political views, education, and other topics affecting impoverished black communities in America. At some point during this meeting, I noticed a gentleman extremely quiet, but body language wise, I could tell he was waiting for his opportunity to speak. When he finally got his chance, the very first thing he asked myself and my husband was: "Are y'all Christian?" At the time, I still was. But even then, in my mind I wondered, "What the heck does that have to do with making change?" "What the heck do religious beliefs have to do with this meeting?" Unfortunately... for most... everything.

People will not work together simply based on beliefs. They do not want to build with or be "unequally yoked." Religion has held us back in so many ways. Even pastors going as far as to say that movements outside of church are a distraction. Visited a church and part of the Pastor's sermon was "the Black Lives Matter movement is a distraction set up by the enemy." The logic is, "If it ain't kingdom business it's none of your business." 🧐 So when I say we have a long way to go, what I might as well be saying is unity will not be attained in our lifetime. We cannot even agree on something as simple as our identity/race.

Who are we?

What do we call ourselves? Identity is so important. I say we are simply Black. We are so removed from African culture-- generations to be exact. Black people here in America have influenced the entire world. Yes, including Africa-- from music, art to fashion. So, in my opinion, it's time we differentiate, solidify and unify here, first. Wishful thinking. Tradition, religion and old mindsets are hindering our potential progress. Not ignoring the progress that we have indeed witnessed, but we still have so far to go. 🎶Say it LOUD I'm Black and I'm proud.🎶

Unity is not impossible, but we may not see it in our lifetime. Just try to be the best you can be as an individual and work with and unify with the handful of people willing to work and progress with you, even if that means only your household!