Stay tuned for more topics, comment or write us at editors@madamenoire.com if you have suggestions!
The world can see the black community in America is failing—miserably. Despite past oppression, we have more opportunity now than ever. Yet, we have found a way to squander the liberties and countless possibilities for which our forefathers sacrificed their lives. As a people we murmur and complain, expecting different results without change. The universe doesn’t work that way.
It takes a combination of renewed thinking and behavior to change the shape of a community, and great strides must be made to break the cycles that ruined it. Yes, some of our mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers have perpetuated these cycles. But, change starts with one. There are just some things as individuals we must decide are unacceptable.
1. Sexual promiscuity
We lead in new and existing HIV infections. HIV is killing our community, whether hetero- or homosexual. Although we need to become “more responsible” and “more educated” about such killer diseases, abstinence as a mere form of self-respect should be advocated.
2. Children out of wedlock
The term is brash but it accounts for 70 percent of black children. Single-parent homes are not something to aspire towards. Functional two-parent homes are always better for a child. Haphazardly bringing children into the world puts them at an immediate disadvantage.
3. Fear of commitment
Without the ability to commit to one another in marriage, it is impossible to revitalize a community. It’s the first step in rebuilding families and setting standards for structure.
4. Lack of education
Having an education unlocks doors and shatters glass ceilings. Graduating high school is something normal and earning at least one college degree should be expected. Education is something to be valued, and we must learn to see the benefit in opportunity costs. It is better to spend four years in college than simply working a menial job. We must set ourselves up to build careers rather than hold jobs.
5. Excessive cursing
Cursing excessively displays an inability to articulate. In attempting to prove a point, it sounds ignorant and dimwitted. We have to use real words to effectively communicate. Reading a newspaper or magazine article everyday expands vocabularies.
6. Negligent parenting
Instead of teaching our children the words to rap songs, we should be playing educational or at least age-appropriate sing-a-long songs, and watching Yo Gabba Gabba instead of Cheaters. When you become a parent, the focus becomes your child. Children need to be put first. The selfishness has to end and we need to cater to our children.
7. Adornment of ignorance
There is nothing wrong with speaking so-called proper English, getting good grades or having a high-level of self-respect. It’s not “acting white.” It should be the new “acting black.” People with high expectations should be admired not ostracized.
8. Intra-racial discrimination
We are one community made of up various colors. At no time should we place one complexion over another. Without divisiveness, we are a force.
9. Violence
Life is something to be appreciated and honored. Far too many, blacks die as results of senseless violence. Death is not something to be taken lightly. Life is a one-time opportunity to be spent meaningfully.
10. Poor health
We lead in heart disease, diabetes, obesity and many other food-induced diseases. Black bones are no thicker than anyone else’s. Forget the fried chicken and smothered pork chops; our diets need more fresh fruits and vegetables. We have to consume foods with life and adopt healthier lifestyles.
To learn more about LaShaun Williams, you can visit ‘Politically Un-apologetic’ at http://www.politicallyunapologetic.wordpress.com.
