A Message From The Publisher
There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death Proverbs 16:25 (ESV)
By Bobby R. Henry, Sr.
There is a torrent of what can best be described as “recency bias” in this longstanding discussion of the State of Black America.
Ahistorical bigots—and some brainwashed Black individuals—are fervently pushing the personal responsibility/pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps/reverse racism narrative. I acknowledge that certain appointed white individuals seem hoodwinked, hogtied, and collared based upon some of the Trump theatrics and the antics of his sycophants. These individuals would like the rest of us to believe that we are unable to develop a coherent, cohesive strategy to combat the effects of good ol’ American racism. However, on the way to that strategy being developed—one which is being implemented and inflamed by idiots using napalm-like tactics—I believe it’s important to note that…
IT WASN’T US…
…who propagated the worldwide myth of Black folks’ inferiority.
…whose founding documents valued a Black life as 60% of a white life.
…who made it AGAINSTTHE LAW for Black people to read.
…who made it illegal for Black people to vote.
…who burned Black peoples’ homes and churches.
…who stole Black peoples’ land.
…who subjected Black people to horrendous medical experiments.
…who denied mortgages and other forms of credit to Black people.
…who lynched, maimed, and tortured people for the “crime” of being Black.
…who levied taxes from Black labor (after getting that labor for free) and returned NOTHING.
…who circumscribed the boundaries allowed for Black habitation.
To this day, bigots dress up in the same shirts, suits, and ties. I’m certain if they could get away without people seeing how clownish they look, they would dye their hair orange. They refuse to reconcile these FACTS to their inevitable outcomes. They accuse actual victims of “playing the victim card.” They denigrate legislation laboriously devised to reverse the impact of these policies, and have made affirmative action and DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) “dog whistles” to summon other bigots.
DO NOT allow those who have benefited from the immoral policies described above to deter you from telling the TRUTH. Every time you hear them trying to blame YOU, just tell ‘em—IT WASN’T US!!
The Burden of History
The history of systemic racism in America is not merely a series of unfortunate events; it is a calculated, structured oppression designed to dehumanize and marginalize Black people. This legacy is not just in the past; its tentacles reach into the present, and with the unchecked actions of saboteurs of freedom for all, it will sweep its way into the future affecting every facet of Black life—from the justice system, to economic opportunities and healthcare access to education and housing.
The Myth of Personal Responsibility
The argument that Black individuals should simply “pull themselves up by their bootstraps” is not only indifferent but also ignores the systemic barriers deliberately placed to hinder Black progress. It is an ahistorical(without concern for history or historical development) narrative that has selective amnesia when it comes to addressing the historical and ongoing injustices that have created and perpetuated racial disparities.
The Reality of Systemic Racism
Policies and practices like police brutality, redlining, voter suppression, and discriminatory lending are not relics of a distant past but are issues that continue to affect Black communities today. These systemic obstacles have been designed to maintain a racial hierarchy, where Black individuals are continually at a disadvantage.
Challenging the Narrative
It is crucial to challenge the narrative that places the burden of overcoming racism solely on Black folk while ignoring the societal structures that enforce and maintain racial inequality. Affirmative action and DEI initiatives are steps towards addressing these deep-seated issues, yet they are often attacked by those who benefit from the status quo.
Stand Firm in the Truth
In the face of denial and heresy, it is essential to stand firm in the truth. The history and present reality of racism in America are well-documented and irrefutable. Do not allow those who have benefited from systemic racism to shift the blame onto the victims. Remember, and remind them:
IT WASN’T US!!
