Article by:
Dr. Gerald D. Curry
After watching the dismantling of the House of Representatives, reflecting on the abolishing of Affirmative Action, reaction to immigrants coming across the borders, and recent banning of books in several Republican States, I’ve concluded this country’s ultimate sin of enslaving a race of people continues to haunt us. After the United States tremendous accomplishments of becoming a world power, in spite of its horrific decision of treating black and brown people poorly, you would think there’s a moral fiber that seeks freedom, equal rights for all, democracy, and world peace for the entire world, but in my opinion, I believe just the opposite is happening. We are seeing the effects of centuries of systemic and institutional racism play out before our very eyes, but I’m still optimistic that things will turn around.
Our ancestors lived in a period where they knew relief was not coming in their lifetime, but they knew if they kept the focus, and continued to put forth their best effort, the next generation would be better. That’s exactly where I believe we are and what needs to be our strategy for success. Dr. Martin King Jr. reminded us that the moral arc of the universe is long and bends towards justice. This justice is not for one race of people, but for everyone. Even when we’re tired, we must fight on. Even when the prevailing laws and policies are not being passed in our favor, we must maintain the fight for freedom by doing our part. All of us can play a part, and it is our duty to do so.
If we don’t vote, if we do not encourage others to vote, and pave the way for our children and grandchildren, then we are slowly giving up. I don’t know about you, but each of us must play our part. We have no other choice but to encourage one another. Take some time out to mentor someone, and not just those that look like you. We need to start building alliances, and ensure our actions are in alignment with our personal philosophy. I personally have approximately 200 mentees and most of them do not look like me. I invest in others, and trust that they will do the same.
This week I lost three really good friends who loved and lived life to its fullest. Their deaths reminded me just how fragile life is, and my personal goal is to die completely empty, by sharing the best of me, with any and everyone who’s willing to listen. I am formalizing my mentoring program because I want to be able to reach more people. I strongly suggest you do the same.
I live by five core principles and only accept friends within these five areas. My principles are my faith, family, fitness, finances, and freedom. Anyone that operates outside these core principles I do not make time for, even if they are blood relatives, because I view my time as sacred. I believe each of us should examine where we spend our time, talent, and treasures. These are the only resources we have to offer.
One other thing that is critically important to combating racism in this country is economic empowerment. If your finances are limited, there’s not a lot you can do for yourself or others. You first have to put your oxygen mask on before you can assist anyone else. Your goal should be to create a thriving business enterprise, that augments or supplements you and your family. The U.S. Tax Laws are designed for land barons and business owners. If you want to take full advantage of the tax rules, you must own a business, and as you are building your business, buy black as much as possible. Every week I make it a goal to purchase a minimum of three major purchases from black-owned companies.
While we are still seeking justice, let’s not be myopic and only think we are not making progress. We are making tremendous progress every single day. There’s a lot that needs to be said about the Senate Confirmation of General CQ Brown, as Chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff, while serving alongside a black Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, and Air Force General Anthony Cotton, Commander of U.S. Strategic Command, and controls the U.S. nuclear enterprise. The world’s freedom is in the hands of three black men. This is the first time in U.S. history, and should be celebrated, yet it does not mean that we have arrived. It only means the arc is bending in the right direction.
All of us must do our part, and we are depending on you to elevate your game, and in the words of Tyler Perry, “Higher is Waiting.” We owe it to ourselves to move beyond the superficial, and intentionally spend time building a world that is equal and just for all. We have proven nothing is impossible for us. It’s time to stop focusing on race, by shifting that energy on focusing on what’s right. We must establish justice for all!