Where does Black America go from here? By Addam Francisco.
Knowing America's history and the injustices that come with it concerning African-Americans, it shouldn't be a shocker to see the state of America in 2020. After the most recent case of police brutality which resulted in George Floyd's death, there's been a revamp of the Black Lives Matter movement, and this time it's hitting harder than it ever has.
This time, though, our approach has to be different. We have to be aggressive, yet strategic in our quest towards justice. There needs to be a distinct gameplan in place to overthrow an old American system that has held African-Americans back for centuries. While that gameplan is still to be determined, here are some things that the average Black man can do to help our situation.
As Black men, we have to step forward as leaders in our communities.
First things first, we have to stop killing each other. Black people killing each other has plagued our community for decades, which only makes the job easier for policemen with ulterior motives. The gang violence has to stop. Secondly, taking leadership roles in our communities, starting businesses, and shaping the next generation of Black men is key. There's no reason why more of us shouldn't be running for political offices. There's no reason why more young Black men shouldn't be joining the police force to make it more diverse and inclusive.
What are some resources for change?
The biggest resource that'll impact our people the quickest is voting, and that's something everyone over 18 can do. Another resource is joining and getting involved in organizations like the NAACP, which is an organization that has initiated change for our people for 111 years. While it's beneficial, it has to be replenished with young, forward-minded people to keep up with the times.
How can we inspire and get other Black men involved?
We have to change the focus of our young Black men. The harsh reality is that too many of us idolize the wrong people. Especially in our current society. We have to stop supporting and idolizing organizations and individuals that promote hate, or violence. Somehow, we have to make it 'cool' to get involved in our communities. Being smart, being articulate, and being in touch with social and political issues have to become the norm for Black men.
How to deal with the trauma that comes with the violence within our community, and the violence caused by outside factors, like the police.
Mental health and the discussion of mental health has been labeled as a weakness in the Black community. It goes back to the days of slavery where mental illness wasn't an excuse. African-Americans had to be strong, regardless of what our mind was going through. That has bled into our current society. One of the most common forms of mental illness in our community is PTSD, which could be caused by a multitude of traumatic experiences, but a common one is seeing our Black brothers dying in the street, repeatedly.
Overcoming this starts with acknowledging that we have a problem, not being afraid to voice it, and asking for help. That's the only way we'll be able to overcome, or at least get a hold on it.
We must continue to uplift each other. That's the only way we'll be able to overthrow the current corruption in our country is if we stick to that plan. As Grand Gentlemen, we're playing our part by uplifting the next generation, helping them go to college so that they can pursue an honest career, and take leadership roles at their universities and in their careers.
Us doing our part is the Man of the Year scholarship that we offer to Black males that are graduating high school and are headed to college. If you have anyone in mind that you want to nominate for next years scholarship, visit https://www.grandgentlemen.com/scholarship.
Story by Addam Francisco. For my from Addam and Grand Gents, follow @SuaveFrancisco_, @TheSuaveReport, @GrandGentlemen
photos by @SoFocusedPhotos