Blacks with Power| Make America Great through Black Power

Seeing the writing on the wall for the "legal institution" of Slavery well before the Civil War, Southern Elites were scrambling to reconfigure their business models in order to secure access to that precious commodity, their niggers. The mythical & infamous Willie Lynch was called in to help the Planter class plan for emancipation. How can they keep control over their slaves, even once gradualism was exhausted and the inevitable freedom at long last had come? In the letter credited to him, Lynch actually frowns upon hangings as a "waste of valuable stock." According to him: I am not here to enumerate your problems, I am here to introduce you to a method of solving them. In my bag here, I have a fool proof method for controlling your slaves. I guarantee every one of you that, if installed correctly, it will control the slaves for at least three hundred years. So what we know as "lynching" is really frowned upon by the Planter class. The true lynching was to sow disunity such that we would never be able to overcome the systemic and cultural obstacles placed in our - that our designed to negatively impact us on the basis of the group to which we belong. And we are still swinging from that metaphorical tree. #StrangeFruit We have nailed ourselves to that tree, so that we might find a way to survive in this white man's world. But is that freedom? #WhatsFree What is freedom? What is this freedom that was promised us? What is that freedom that will at long last bring us down from the lynching tree, so that we might rest and experience new life? We discuss that in this episode of Blacks with Power, and I want to invite you to this consideration. Coming off the Juneteenth release of my new book, Becoming a People: Re-Membering Blackness in the imago Dei, there were a few things I wanted to connect with Pr. Jimmie on and share with you. I think you'll really be edified by the convo. And I believe it should compel you to grab a copy of my book. Notes: The beautiful piece of art used in the cover image is by Nebiyu Assefa. See more of his art via the link. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IIdF5jN-Y2o&sub_confirmation=1

So, I wasn't going to record an episode...I mean, I wanted to. But I didn't want to... The reality that police are now shooting us in the back of the head and folk are finding ways to rationalize and justify that. Even those who are supposedly supporting the mattering of Black life, want to see the tape of Andrew Brown Jr's execution as if they believe there could be something on the tape that gives them comfort that a bullet to the back of the head was warranted... I was compelled to record a show. But, I also didn't assert that with Pr. Jimmie. So, we didn't set up in my normal software for recording. So...this will be an Old Skool throw back type show... It will be just audio. Yet, we were on fire! I was in a space that I hope I won't be in next week. Yet, I give thanks for what the Spirit placed in our midsts and so I am releasing this as a traditional audio only podcast. Because we must consider: what is the line that cannot be crossed? What is the deal breaker for this experiment in integration? Do we have a deal breaker? Or have we simply resigned ourselves...reconciled ourselves to taking this ass-whopping until White folk stumble upon a higher level of civility and humanity than which they are presently capable? We have to have some positions that protect and assert our dignity as human beings. So, in this conversation I present some of those foundational positions we must have and why we must have them if we the Black People are to become anything more than a victim of the American Experiment. There are some foundational positions we must hold as a people, and we must be willing to disengage from anything that violates our dignity. So, in a sense: this might be the last podcast, because I don't know what point it serves to have this conversation if you all are still ok with remaining a subjugated people. But if you hear this and are moved to protect and assert your dignity, let us know in the comments and we can continue on this journey together!

We have heard the quote, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over-and-over again, while expecting different results.” But we seem to be stuck on this trajectory… How do we make it stop?! This conundrum has become a reality for Fr. Jabriel and me. Communally, we see this conundrum of insanity illustrated in how we view ourselves. There are many of us who are not willing to put in the work to explore and evolve who we are and how we view ourselves. Believe it or not, the personal view of ourselves distort our view toward others. This is the center of this conundrum.  Are we willing to start and continue the work of self-exploration and evolution? Are we willing to continue in this conundrum of insanity? This is our exploration on this episode of Blacks With Power. After viewing this episode, share your thoughts and comments. How much deeper do you think we need to go in this conversation? What's the single greatest question you have in response? Your comments will shape the how we approach this moving forward...so, thank you! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cef40lX9Qs&sub_confirmation=1

The old saying goes, “Laughter is good for the soul.” But it’s also said that, “You have to laugh to keep from crying.” These sayings expressed the way in which we either find joy through laughter or cope through laughter. And this is the deeper search, because we all need to laugh… We all have moments when we “need to laugh.” Or maybe not…maybe we’re the only ones…Do you have moments when you just need a good laugh? As you see and endure the Black Experience, do you not experience times where you “just have to laugh?” But how are we laughing? Just to cope? Or to enter into the Joy of our True and Only Master? This is our exploration on this episode of Blacks With Power. After viewing this episode, share your thoughts and comments. How do you engage laughter? Do you find joy through laughter? Do you find yourself coping with laughter? Do you ignore those who simply cannot laugh? We invite you to watch and share. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZ3vEhU_wPU&sub_confirmation=1

The oldest and the most BELOVED institution in the Black community is the Black Church. Tuesday, February 16, 2021, PBS aired a documentary called “The Black Church.”  One personal take-away of this documentary is that “white acceptance is something that Black people long for.” These words are from my personal tweet, @WWJimmieDo. Fr. Jabriel, @Jah_Bread, responded, “There’s a topic...lol.”  Any good documentary should provoke an honest conversation. White acceptance is something that is longed for in our BELOVED Black Church. Because of this, we celebrate our tradition while negating the trail that we are blazing for the next generation to come. What has the Black Church become? Is the Black Church moving our beloved community forward? Or, are we just simply celebrating the traditional heritage of the Black Church?  This is our exploration on this episode of Blacks With Power. After viewing this episode, share your thoughts and comments. What are your thoughts when it comes to the heritage of the Black Church? We invite you to watch and share. To ensure a deeper understanding of the Black Church, we offer the following resources: Black Church and Black Radicalism by Gayraud S. WilmoreThe Negro Church in America / The Black Church Since Frazier by E. Franklin Frazier and C. Eric LincolnDavid Walker’s Appeal by David Walker Some additional sources to consider: The Black Church in the African American Experience by C. Eric Lincoln and Lawrence H. MamiyaThe Talking Book: African Americans and The Bible by Allen Dwight CallahanSlave Religion by Albert J. Raboteau The Black Church: Relevant or Irrelevant in the 21st Century? by Reginald F. Davis https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1EnpFLHzbk&sub_confirmation=1

Zora Neale Hurston penned, “All your skin folk ain’t your kinfolk.” There are “skin folk” who continue to project whiteness in families, churches, and other institutions that is part of our community. The projection of whiteness dismembers and distorts the memory, vision and mission of the beloved community.  As we journey through Black History Month, we are constantly reminded of the terror of White Supremacy. From the period of Reconstruction to the Insurrection at the Capital Building, whiteness (White Supremacy) remains at the cultural center of our country, community, and companions (those who consider themselves kinfolk).  What does it mean for us to remember, return, and reconnect to our being as the beloved community? How do we embark on this journey of reclaiming ourselves and our community? This is our exploration on this episode of Blacks With Power. We are joined by Rev. Tyree Anderson, D.Min. He is the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Ensley, located in Birmingham, Alabama. He also hosts The Cutting Edge Clergy Podcast. After viewing this episode, share your thoughts and comments. What resonates with you as it pertains to reimagining ourselves free from the projection of whiteness? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yF7BxIXLTrE&sub_confirmation=1

What is Black History Month? What is its purpose? What should be its purpose? What is the best use of Black History, in these times? What are we remembering? What does it mean to "re-member?" As we enter Black History Month, in the wake of White Insurrection, it is time to reconsider our approach to our story and its usage. It might not be the best use of Black History as a means to "enrich American History." Maybe it's better to focus Black History on enriching the devalued and dismembered Black American? Better to use Black History for enriching the devalued and dismembered African people of the world... This is our exploration in this episode of Blacks with Power. After checking it out, what do you think? What needs to be remembered? Where should we be placing the emphasis of remembering and who should be most invested in this remembering? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRUXABW8dsQ&sub_confirmation=1

With all the talk of unity and unifying America in the Post-Trump Era, the real question is this: What do you mean by unity? What definition of self are you using to determine what is meant by unity? What version of self are you presenting for unification with White America? As a new Administration takes over and most folk prepare to go back to sleep, we wanted to explore these questions in this episode of Blacks with Power. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EAUyMdtBq6c&feature=youtu.be&sub_confirmation=1

Last week…as we were recording last week’s episode of Blacks with Power, vitriolic elements of White Power took the Capital by storm, resulting in five death, including a member of Law Enforcement. They violated and betrayed the Rule of Law, with the support of the President, Members of Congress and other Federal and State elected officials. Now, we are witnessing the aftermath. How will genteel White Power respond? What will the Rule of Law mean in this instance? All of it remains to be seen. But, will Black people be watching? Will you be paying attention? And for what will you be paying attention? What will you be looking to see and what will you do with what you see? That’s our discussion on this episode, and we’d love to hear your response to our thoughts & challenges in the comments below. Or tweet us: @jahbread & @wwjimmiedo. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6b4NLItTvKg&feature=youtu.be&sub_confirmation=1

It’s wild… We recorded this hours BEFORE the mayhem that unfolded in DC on January 6, 2021. It wasn’t developed with this in mind. However, this was clearly in the Spirit that came upon us as we start this New Years journey as Blacks with Power. The Ancients would say: “A charge to keep I have…A God to glorify. A never-dying soul to save and fit it for the sky…” What is the role of the Black Church in these times? If we are indeed American like everyone else… If we indeed have a value to America that needs be appreciated… And if America is really & truly to “heal…” What is the Holy Call of the Black Church? And how do we cultivate the faith that would ensure the Mattering of Black Lives, such that our full Black selves might have efficacy in the transformation in the America unto A More Perfect Union? What is the faith we must have…what is the faith that is becoming of Beloved Community? Those are some of our questions in this episode of Blacks with Power. We’d love to hear your response to what we’ve presented! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dUSqkLu-0hs&sub_confirmation=1

We didn't plan on doing this episode, so I don't have a plan for a post. Yet, the Spirit spoke and we listened. So, we hope that you will too! It's rare that you'll see a white face on Blacks with Power. But, in this episode we're joined by my brother Fr. Cayce - with whom I host Racial Heresy (my podcast on Racial Reconciliation). Pr. Jimmie knows Fr. Cayce too...they are in the same cohort at the School of Theology at Virginia Union. So, there was a lot of laughter and irreverent discussion about race and dynamics across the color line, in this work of racial reconciliation. It's our gift to y'all. Inviting y'all into a discussion that neither you, nor our white audience for Racial Heresy get to see. Please let us know what you think! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jFZtGeig4E&feature=youtu.be&sub_confirmation=1

Prophets, politicians…prophets, politicians… We better know my difference! Cause like Push T, all I see is victims. https://youtu.be/crCFDQyfORM Victims of politicians pretending to be leaders. Victims of prophets compromising alone the Way like politicians… Both pulling one over on We the People because we fail to understand the difference in their roles. We misunderstand who should have what role. So, we allow politicians to shape the way we walk along this Journey to the Promised Land, and we expect prophets to conform to the way established by politicians. But, like President Obama said recently on Trevor Noah’s Daily Show, that’s not the role of a politician. But we expect the wrong things from them. Until we put politicians and prophets in proper perspective, we will remain lost in this wilderness. So, what is this proper perspective? How should we understand the role of politicians? And how do we put politicians in proper perspective? That’s our exploration in this episode of Blacks with Power. How do you think we ought to view and engage with politicians? Let us know in the comments. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMJz2lojuuo&sub_confirmation=1

What do we do when people are determined to continue banging their heads against the wall? Like, imagine walking up to someone who is repeatedly head-butting concrete… If you didn’t find him completely strange and just walk away…if you felt compassion for that man, and wanted him to not hurt himself… What would you do? He can’t hear you gently calling for him to stop. He can’t feel you tapping and shaking him to catch his attention. He’s too busy banging his head against the wall. He’s determined to band his head against that wall. But you know the danger of that process. So you forcibly restrain him. But as soon as you think he’s calm and you let him up, he returns to banging his head into the wall… What do you do? That’s what it feels like to minister to Black people. No matter how often our way fails to bring about the mattering of Black Life, we remain committed to that approach - banging our heads against the wall. I realizing that's not a slight against our people. Rather, it requires perspective and understanding...something I've learned from my failures as a father, which I shared after our episode. But, I think it helps give some perspective on where I'm coming from, so I share it (just) with you... https://youtu.be/-QU6htgpDrc But there’s some things I’m learning about all of this, for those of us that strive to help Black folk find that Promised Land where Black Lives Matter. And that’s what Pr. Jimmie and I discuss in this episode of Blacks with Power. Check it out and let us know: 1) how do you give Black people the grace to bang their heads against the wall of White Supremacy, and 2) what do you think has to happen for Black folk to stop banging their heads against that wall and be ready for something new - even if unproven? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5dT9JMJ7KSk&sub_confirmation=1

We don’t talk about castration enough… But castration is a big part of the Black American identity. It’s why Rev. Jesse Jackson fantasized about cutting off Obama’s nuts. (His words…not mine… #NeverForget) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YkRdLEot6zE Don’t believe me? The scholars in our midst can read Prof. Dianne Miller Somerville’s work on “Rape, Race, and Castration in Slave Law in the Colonial and Early South.” The same fear of Black men that led to the rise of the KKK also encouraged the practice of castration. During the Nadir of American Race Relations, Black men and women were lynched and mutilated so their body parts could serve as souvenirs…relics of White Conquest. It was the anatomy of a lynching… The castration occurred to bear witness to the virility of the White Male and the undergirding of White Power. We tend to think that we’ve moved away from castration, as a society. We’ve evolved and we are beyond that. Now, we engage in self-castration. Now, Black men don’t have to be lynched in order to be castrated. The Society has been designed to compel Black men to castrate themselves. The Black community watches on, as a man castrates himself, and remains silent. We encourage the self-castration and then wonder why that man is ineffective. When will we stop allowing the self-mutilation of blackness? I think it takes an intentional effort by the Black Church for us to begin undoing our penchant for self-castration. That’s why I think the Senate race of Rev. Raphael Warnock is critical - especially in these times… The Georgia Runoff is happening immediately after President Trump was defeated… I know I don’t have to tell you that… I also don’t have to tell you that Trump has been by far the most vitriolic and offensive President of recent memory. There was a constant, open and explicit assault on Black Identity. In Western Civilization, who is supposed to defend the integrity and honor of a people that have been offended? Hence the purpose of castration… Immediately after the Trump Era, we need a Black Man to do what Barack Obama could not do. We need a Black Man to demonstrate the righteous indignation of a people that have been offended by another. Obama had it early on…in his candidacy. But when sermons from Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright popped up, White Power handed Barack the knife. He castrated himself, denied his faith and became President. He didn’t have much choice… It’s not like the Black Community was (proudly) standing back and standing by, making it clear that the establishment had no right to question his faith - nor the faith of Black people, shaped by our American sojourn. It’s not like Black Clergy mounted a defense of Black Faith, like “evangelicals” launched for Justice Amy Coney Barrett. So without cover…without guidance, Barack Obama didn’t have a choice. He took the knife… After that, it became impossible for him to ever take the stands we have wanted him to take on behalf of Black America. He had been forever rendered powerless in the arena set up by the White Man. And they’re doing it again with Rev. Dr. Raphael Warnock. What will we do? What should we do? That’s our discussion on this episode of Blacks with Power. Check it out, and let us hear from you. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1NGrzXBxX4&feature=youtu.be&sub_confirmation=1

Why do we tend to take the opinions of non-theologians - over that of theologians, on matters of faith? Recently, there’s been much discussion about the swipes that Barack Obama took at Jeremiah Wright in his new book. Some of you might be saying: “what swipes?” You might not have heard because mainstream news isn’t speaking on it yet. Here’s a very good analysis to get you started. Believe me: it’ll become part of the Georgia Run Off Election for Rev. Raphael Warnock…so you might want to take note. Fox is starting early, as you would figure. Check them out… https://youtu.be/QTxfXwH284A And Barack Obama is giving White Power the playbook by which to attack the way Christ and His Gospel has spoken to Black people in America, in order to provide us with comfort in the midst of White supremacist aggression. But, Obama is not the problem. I don’t begrudge him the choice he freely made for his life and the life of his family. That’s between him and his god. Barack Obama is just another example in a long list of examples, where folk have been allowed to misinterpret the Gospel of Jesus Christ and remain part of the Beloved Community without correction. We have to love each other better than that, if we are to realize that Black Lives Matter. So, what does Love require of the Black Church in the midst of these assaults on the faith given us by God and the free expression of it? That’s what we are getting at in this episode of Blacks with Power. Check it out and let us know: what would have to happen over the next 3-4 years for the Black Church to protect Black people from any further heresy creeping into Black Faith? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSuNWijvNbI&sub_confirmation=1

What do we do about heresy? Heresy?!?!? Who talks about heresy… Two lines in, I’m sure many have already stopped reading. Heresy is such a bad word… We don’t talk about it. So we damn sure don’t know what to do about it. We don’t consider how it impacts the Mattering of Black Life. But how can the essential and foundational mattering of a people - any people - be established when that people is unknowingly embracing heresy? The Apostles warned followers to be aware that heretics exist and that they are determined to come among the people in order to rebind them to the things, ways and people from which the Lord had freed them. But do we take heed of their warning? Do we even still believe their warning is anything more than allegory? Do we even still care that there are thieves in the temple? And if we don’t…what does it mean for the heresy that has crept into Black culture? That’s the focus of our discussion in this episode of Blacks with Power. What do you think of the role that heresy has - and is - playing in the problems we face as a people? We’d love to read your thoughts… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOrBH2ocXXo&sub_confirmation=1

The experience of Black people in America is exhibit A in the case of white society’s wickedness… We are often afraid to say that. We are more likely to feign being “happy darkies,” thankful for the genteel goodness of white people. And we are counting on that genteel goodness now more than ever. After four years of Trumpian rampant white supremacist vitriol… After four years of white folk feeling empowered to say the heinous shit that is on their minds… We are counting on things being returned to normal. We are “hopeful” that normal will become better. We are trusting that Joe Biden and Kamala Harris will bring healing to the Nation… But if we’re honest with ourselves and our thoughts we know the truth: White people are incapable of prescribing the healing of America… And since we’ve decided to stay here... Since Black people have not decided to leave America, we have chosen to adopt White America as our sisters and brothers. As Western Protestant Christians, we have chosen to adopt White Christians - yea, even White Evangelicals - as our brothers and sisters. So, what does that mean for our engagement with America? What does that mean for the Mattering of Black Life? That’s the jump off for our discussion in this episode of Blacks with Power. What do you think about our perspectives on tending to whiteness? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2v_vGTToojs&sub_confirmation=1

The Black Church got on board with ushering the Black Vote to elect Joe Biden. All over traditional and social media the refrain is that Black voters saved America. But, the deeper truth of that statement is this: Black people saved an America that didn’t want to be saved… You see, the 2020 Presidential Election was supposed to be a blowout for Biden. White folk had become "woke." They were protesting en masse, "in far greater numbers that in the 1960s." This was all to be a sign that the white supremacy was at its final throes. And were were told to be excited...to have hope. To use this as an indication that justice is around the corner and all we needed to do was get to the polls...to come out and vote. White folk were going to have our backs... There was supposed to be a “Blue Wave” that swept over the land, bringing the Democrats into Sole Control of the Federal Government. But that didn’t happen… Rather, the Republicans retained control of the Senate and weakened the Democrats’ majority in the House. The Presidential Election - while Biden seems likely to win, was incredibly close in the vote. Forget contesting the vote and the various lawsuits…forget the potential of GOP controlled States unbinding Electors and declaring Trump the winner…forget the stacked Supreme Court with Justices from the Bush-Gore 2000 betrayal of the Black Vote… The vote…the popular vote and Electoral College vote was actually close. Yes, there was a record turnout - in early voting, mail-in voting and in person day of voting. But that increase only serves to highlight the fact that it’s not just a small group of people who side with Trump. There is a shit-ton of people in America who agree with his ideology. They just think Trump went (a little) too far with his behavior. Black people saved an America that didn’t yet want to be saved. Black people saved an America that had not yet come to repentance. And it was the Black Church that counseled us to do it… So, where to now for the Black Church? What should we be considering? How should we be looking toward “the now” and the future? White folks still have not decided to abandon white supremacy. So what should be the outlook for the Black Church going forward? How ought the Black Church minister unto the faithful in this dynamic? That’s what we begin exploring in this episode of Blacks with Power. Check it out and give us your thoughts on “where we go from here…” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=crDlIJJWL1w&sub_confirmation=1

It’s like we - Black poeple - are stranded in the wilderness and don’t know it… It’s like we are stranded in the wilderness and have reconciled ourselves to that position… Has the Black Church kept us stranded in the wilderness? Why is it that the Church hasn’t been able to guide us through the wilderness by now? Dr. John Kinney, Professor of Theology and Former Dean of the School of Theology at Virginia Union, joins us to speak about where the Black Church is in the struggle for the Mattering of Black Life and offer his thoughts on where the Black Church should be in this struggle to restore Black Life to the imago Dei. He came with a lot of wisdom! And, got started right away… Literally… We had barely said hello before the Spirit gave word and the conversation took off! So, I’m going to be short on this intro as well…inviting you to enjoy this conversation. Let us know: what is the single greatest takeaway you gleaned from this discussion? Post your thoughts in the comments below the video… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HUNj_pHlKc&feature=youtu.be&sub_confirmation=1

It's a long way to go when you don't know where you're going…You don't know where you're going when you're lost. That’s what the late great Guru of Gang Starr said on Hard to Earn https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLKmXovPVP8 Do we Negroes know where we are going? Don’t just get upset at the seeming audacity of my question. But think about it…dare to answer it: Do we know where we are going? What is freedom? Where is the Promised Land? In Eucharistic fashion, walking in love as Christ loved us, giving himself for us - an offering and sacrifice to God, Dr. King was assassinated. And on the night before he died for us, while feasting on the Word with friends, our leader Martin Luther King, Jr. gave what we know as the Mountaintop Speech. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixfwGLxRJU8 Have you ever listened to it? If not…you should…really. It’s damn sure worth it. What did Dr. King see from the Mountaintop? We know he saw the Promised Land… But what did he see? What did the Promised Land look like? Of what did the Promised Land the Lord showed to Dr. King consist? How did he know that what he saw was the Promised Land of God? Have you ever wondered that? Shouldn’t we want to know what he saw? In this episode of Blacks with Power, Pr. Jimmie and I are exploring the spiritual reality of this last day in this prophet’s life. What does it say to us and how does it shape the Mattering of Black Life? Share your comments! Let us know what you think the Promised Land is made of… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=labOYgSeRjI&sub_confirmation=1

We could recreate the Garden of Eden from whence we were out-cast… We could indeed become the Beloved Community and forge A More Perfect Union, on earth as it is in Heaven… There really could exist a reality in tangible form where “there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” It could be possible…here in America. But White folk would have to repent of White Supremacy. Not just pass some legislation to grant Black people a few more rights until they take them away. Not just to add more Black people to their boards of directors. Not to do any of the myriad acts they could do and should do… But to repent of White Supremacy… Yet how will that ever happen unless Black folk compel them to repent? Will White people ever be able to read the Story of the Exodus - of the Hebrew people in slavery, in Egypt, and see themselves as the oppressor? Will White people ever be able to read the Exodus and see themselves as the Egyptians, unless compelled to do so by Black Prophetic witness to the Gospel? Some folk wonder why I work with White folk on extricating White Supremacy from their sphere’s of influence. I guess it’s because I want to be able to say to the Lord at Judgment time that I tried to love my errant White brothers and sisters unto righteousness. I want to be able to say that I tried to present an example of Blackness restored to the imago Dei in which we were created in the Beginning. Blackness that has godly power to compel whiteness to at last submit to the Will of God. What is the “belovedness” of the community we wish to see? So long as we live in America, intermingled with White people, what is the vision for Beloved Community? And how is it achieved? In this episode of Blacks with Power, Pr. Jimmie and I discuss the role of Black Prophetic Preaching in the mattering of Black Life and in the forging of A More Perfect Union. Check it out and let us know what you think the role of Black preaching should be in these times… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlxyJU_B6-Q&sub_confirmation=1

The people were in exile in the wilderness. They had been in bondage for over 400 years, but now they were free. They hadn’t yet arrived at the Promised Land, but at least they were free. Or so you’d think… Because the people craved the land of their oppression. They longed for the days when they were close to their earthly masters. Massa might have been mean and violent, but “we sat by the pots of meat and ate bread to the full!” The missed the comfort of their slave quarters. The reliability of their life in bondage. It was consistent and they could count on certain things to be a certain way. They desired security more than they desired freedom… I wonder about the Mind of Moses, watching his people stuck on stupid. No matter what, they clung to Egypt and the way of life they had in Egypt. They believed in the greatness of the land of their oppression. It was oppressive, yes…yet, in their eyes, it was still the greatest Country in the world. After being docile in subjugation and submissive to their oppressors for 400 years, they now become soooo impatient they cannot wait 40 days for Moses to return before they run for their faithless desires. All they needed was a leader who would give them permission to indulge their unfaithfulness… Aaron builds the people a golden calf and helps them return to Egypt spiritually, emotionally, mentally - since they can’t return physically. Doesn’t that sound a lot like what Black Leadership has done for the past few decades? But is it the fault of leadership? Or is it the fault of the people? If we “get the leaders we deserve,” what does the state of Black Leadership say about the choices of Black people? That’s our exploration in this episode of Blacks with Power. Check it out and let us know your thoughts in response! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GcXBKQHTeDY&feature=youtu.be&sub_confirmation=1

Even before the Grand Jury decided not to indict the murderers of Breonna Taylor, I already had to get my mind right... The Governor of Florida had just floated a bill to legalize the use of cars as an assault weapon for vitriolic White Supremacists who dislike protesters. I mean... The reality that people can even consider such inhumane actions... And why would I even want to reason with people who demonstrate such deft wickedness? Why reason with those who make it clear the lengths they're willing to go, in effort to be unreasonable? And I know many will say: "That's why you gotta get to the polls!" But really? I'm not saying people shouldn't vote. I would if I could... It's like Ice Cube asked, what are we getting for this vote? Voting for nothing makes no sense. They don’t just want your vote. They need your vote. pic.twitter.com/FjY0voUVjw— Ice Cube (@icecube) September 8, 2020 Do we really think that will make Black Lives Matter? Like after all this time of non-mattering to White folk, seeing the ugly of Donald Trump has somehow converted White Power to disavow White Supremacy? It seems voting is just a maybe... An acceptance that we ought to settle for just a little bit more freedom. That maybe Black Lives will matter in the many rabidly vitriolic White Supremacist States, because Joe Biden is President. We've already seen how easily States will invoke "States Rights" in order to ignore Federal Mandates. Don't we want a solution that will guarantee the mattering of Black Lives? By now many of you are like: "But I ain't moving to no Africa!" But, I keep tryna tell y'all that "Back to Africa" is so much more than that - although I also say you should desire to know yourself. Yet, in this episode Pr. Jimmie and I discuss a solution to the racial problem in America that would best ensure that #BlackLivesMatter. What do you think? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUPBrsvfixk&feature=youtu.be&sub_confirmation=1

The ancestors ain’t wait for death like this… They knew no help was coming. Living in a Society that condoned their bondage… A Society that agreed with Black Inferiority, and the proper place of Negro Servitude… They could run… But running was extremely risky, especially from the Deep South. Seeing those who didn’t make it, mutilated and beaten to a pulp, served as a deterrent too many… So, they hoped for death. The Great By and By. Freedom in the sky. The only freedom on which they could rely. Death. Would. Come. Death wouldn’t disappoint. Death wouldn’t fail. White man couldn’t stop you from dying. Massa couldn’t stop Death from taking you to freedom…couldn’t snatch you from Death’s sacred embrace. So when all other hope of freedom had been dashed and become a distant memory they could barely remember, they hoped for Death to visit. Death: The Great Liberator… But we don’t hope for Death anymore. We take the liberation of Death for granted. We no longer hope for freedom so much that we would die. (Give me Liberty or give me Death.) For it has become well, it is well, with our souls…right here in Egypt. And so, since we know Death will come whether or not we desire freedom: we simply bide our time till we die. The Church has taught us to reconcile ourselves to our oppression…to hope for nothing more than a little more milk and honey in the land of our oppression. Bargaining with our oppressor for just enough “justice” for these times…even when that “justice” is void of any sort of brotherly and sisterly love. God is love and the Jesus is God. And the Body of Christ leads the people to seek after the affections of brothers and sisters who refuse to demonstrate love. We have to confront that reality. No? To speak about it honestly, confessing the truth of where we are so that we might be convicted…convinced that this must no longer stand so that we are converted - following a different path: a path that leads unto freedom, love and peace. No? If you think we need to work out a different way for ourselves…to gain a different sense of direction. Or a sense for a different direction… Then Pr. Jimmie and I share this dialogue and invite you to join the discussion and share your thoughts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZHHvdLYtBzs&sub_confirmation=1

In the Black Church, we often speak of Social Justice. It is the component of the Gospel to which we most appeal. It is the thing we choose to use in order to distinguish ourselves from the White Church… Social Justice… But, is that the right distinction to choose? Yes, the Black Church is far more concerned with social justice than the White Church. The White Church can barely commit to social justice. They spend time arguing on whether Jesus had any social efficacy. As if Jesus’ Life in the Flesh did nothing to engage the social injustices of the day… I don’t know which Gospel they read… Yet, we go in the opposite direction. And the summum bonum of the Black Church is to “let Justice roll down like waters.” Justice, Justice, Justice… What do we want? Justice… When do we want it? Now… But what is Justice? It seems an ever-moving target. The minute we arrive at the Justice of our demands, the circumstance has changed and there’s a new imperative that Justice requires. We are scattered…divided. This is Justice. No…that is Justice. Over here…no - over there. Where, oh where is this Justice? How do we define it? Is it defined using the terms established by those who never intended their justice to be for us? Is Justice simply an abstract concept that changes with the times? At first glance, that may seem to be the case. But He, Who alone Is Justice, Is the same yesterday, today and forever. So, how can true Justice change with the times? Don’t we have to know ourselves, in order to know the depths of the injustice done, so that we can understand what must needs happen for Justice to prevail and righteousness restored? How does we play "Identity Politics," with a faulty & inferior understanding of our identity in the image of God in which we are created? That’s what we explore in this dialogue. We’d love to hear your thoughts and questions in response… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sywxzGuOjyI&feature=youtu.be&sub_confirmation=1

We speak of the Civil Rights Movement... Of the legacy of the struggle. Of how far we've come - by faith...leaning on the Lord. But have we really? Have we come this far because we've been leaning on the Lord? Or have we been leaning on another lord? Do we remember the God of our fathers and mothers? Do we remember the promises God made to them? Do we remember the promises God made to us? Do we remember freedom? Do we remember what freedom is? We damn sure should know what it isn't... With all that we've seen over the past few months: the explosion of vitriol, and the support for and encouragement of that vitriol from the highest seats of power in the land, we should know - unequivocally - what freedom is not. It ain't this... We need to go back and fetch it. #Sankofa. We need to return to the Hush Harbor and remember. We need to get "in the Spirit," be transported to that space and time with our ancestors, and re-member: knit together the Body that was dismembered by white supremacy and our sojourn in America. And having remembered - and having been re-membered, we need to bring that memory into the present: giving that memory life such that we can walk worthy of the future the Lord has to have planned for us. But are we ready for freedom? Or will we simply keep pretending like freedom is right around the corner - even in this neighborhood? What do you think? What would a "liturgy of remembrance" entail for you? Do you think we already have a proper memory? Check out the episode and post your thoughts in the comments! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbmCPRtUlB8&feature=youtu.be&sub_confirmation=1

If you understand this truth, you will also understand the ridiculous absurdity of Black people learning Church from Whiteness... The ridiculous absurdity of Black Church being subordinate to White Church...relegated to a sub-category of "Church," where we have to say BLACK Church, and simply saying "Church" becomes confused with being White. The very existence of a Black Church and White Church comes about because we fail to understand the point of this conversation. So, check out this episode and let us know what you think... What is the single greatest question you have about your conception of the Church and the Faith in light of the message of this podcast episode? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lnNMEI1Qr0&feature=youtu.be&sub_confirmation=1

Blessings beloved! I believe that if we move the Black Church, we move the Black Community...we move individual Black People. So, I continue my inquiry into what is needed for and from the Black Church in these times of heightened danger for Black Life. This time I speak to a fellow Episcopalian. Now, before you stop right there saying: "man, I ain't listening to two 'Black' Episcopalians!" Let me also say this: he's a fellow dread. #Rastafari And so you know the conversation gon be an irie meditation. LOL That said, we start as usual with my question: "what is the single greatest question you would pose to the Black Church in these times?" I want to know what other Black Clerics are thinking. I want to unpack what they are thinking. And I want you to engage with those thoughts... For surely, we need to be thinking...to be strategizing...to be engaged in thoughts that place our context into context with the Gospel...right? So, check out this episode with Fr. Dennis Patterson at Church of the Holy Cross, and let me know what you think... What does it mean to you... What would it look like to you, for the Black Church to step up in the midst of the present social climate? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ye8KPfBuIlo&sub_confirmation=1

Man-oh-Man! It's been a journey getting back into the swing of things... The last episode of Blacks with Power came out in May of 2018. It's been OVER TWO years... I've forgotten a lot...how to set up all my equipment. How to record properly. How to post episodes... If podcasting is like riding a bike, I've fallen all over myself and skinned my knees! But, I'm back!!! LOL I couldn't NOT have something to say in these times. When Black Lives are being turned upside down, Choked out...shot dead in our sleep...or just waking from sleep. While the streets are streaming with people looking for Justice... Willing to disturb the peace. I had to do what I do. I wanted to do what I do. I missed you... I felt as though I had nothing to offer. So I went off into the hills...damn near literally. Started growing a garden. Became a hermit of sorts. I've been on "stay at home" orders for the past few years. Yet, we need to have some conversations my sisters...my brothers... We need to ask some foundational questions. We need to examine our path and the way forward, as we enter the New Era of Lynchings. And those questions should all be directed at the Black Church... On the night before he was betrayed, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. looked out on the crowd assembled and declared, "I may not get there with you...but we as a people will get to the Promised Land!" And Black Leadership - mostly comprised of the Black Church leadership - took up the mantle in Dr. King's wake and told us to follow them to the Beloved Community that King had envisioned for us and gave his life that we might enter. That Beloved Community was a place where Justice rolls on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream... So...where is the Justice? That's the question Pastor Jimmie Staten of Ft. Lauderdale, FL wants to ask. And that's what we unpack in this episode... Now...I said I am beyond rusty! And I meant that... So, I tried to add my headphones mid-episode as my ear-wig died. But changing to earphones killed my audio. So, the episode "ends" kind of abruptly. I've diced up a few clips to post on YouTube if you like the main conversation. Check them out on JahBread TV (click here), and let me know what you think through the comments section. Those questions raised that you'd like to see explored more deeply, we can come back and do another episode. And, I pledge to get better at this... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJwXDVxxnlY&sub_confirmation=1

When it all comes down to it, the end came is dismantling White supremacy... There is no justice in this world... There is no Beloved Community, so long as White supremacy has breadth. Right? But how do we put White supremacy to an end? Can we just wait on White folk to end it? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mggph8o_RNM&feature=youtu.be In this last episode for the Spring 2018 season, we'll explore why Black Power is the only thing that will ultimately dismantle White supremacy. If White supremacy is to come to an end... If the world is going to come from under this sickness... It's going to be because of Black Power.   This season, we've been focused on the foundational principles of my book, Black Power: Our God-Given Call to Make America Great. As we see society being tested and challenged in a major way by America's racial climate, it's important to consider solutions. This is the solution I offer... In hopes that humanity would "come to order," and return to God.   In the Facebook Group, let's talk about it... What are your thoughts about the role Black Power will play in bringing White supremacy to an end? If you're not a member of the group, get access by clicking the banner below...  

All the talk about racial reconciliation ignores the role of Black redemption. And, without Black redemption there is no way to achieve racial reconciliation that is anything more than further conditioning Black people to become reconciled to their own oppression. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85e0LZH4_4g I'm sold that racial reconciliation can only happen as a result of Black redemption. That's why, when people ask me what I speak/present on I say: "Black redemption and racial reconciliation. The two go together. There's a third part that's particular to White people - but, that's not the point of this piece... But from our perspective - as Black people - we're concerned with our part. And that's redemption. Without it, we can't really reconcile. All we can do is position ourselves for further oppression. Without redemption, we are left hoping that White folk will be good to us. Aren't you tired of that?     So, I'm presenting a different approach and invite you to consider it. In this episode of Blacks with Power, I share why Black redemption is the critical first step for us to transform the nature of the relationship between European people and the African people of the world. Black Redemption Leads to True Racial Reconciliation I'd love to know what you think about the role of Black redemption toward the goal of racial reconciliation. So, come on into the group and let's chop it up! If you're not yet a member, click the banner below to join for free... Resources for this Episode: If you want to take that journey to redemption, start here. To dive deeper on the theology behind Black redemption, visit here.

Wakanda forever was the cry... But forever is such a very long time. And our attention spans are so short. Yet, there's such hope in Wakanda-mania. It shows us the great potential of when a myth becomes reality... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRfXhazPdS8 I enjoyed Black Panther... And by box office numbers, it seems most of us did... Beyond the movie, what was very powerful was the countless Black folk proclaiming "Wakanda Forever!" Especially coming from the Black elite... I mean, you expect certain folk to have been all decked out in their African garb. You know: those who go to poetry spots & underground hiphop clubs. Those who fight for reparations and the few who remember Old Marcus Garvey... But those who work in the halls of power? Those who been working hard to advance in White spaces and have to be concerned for what White folks think? I ain't know most of them even had dashikis... Wakanda did a number on us Such power...such prestige...such undeniable Black excellence... You couldn't help but be enraptured by it. It just drew you in... Watching T'Challa defy White power. Seeing all those powerful Black women beating down whiteness. Shuri outsmarting the White power with her engineering prowess. But Wakanda ain't got nothing on this Kingdom... So allow me to shift you from the mythological and point you to something real. And that realness will multiply the experience of Wakanda 10x if you let it. Once you're willing to embrace that power, come over to the group & let's talk about the impact this real life Kingdom could have on our real life circumstance. What do you think of comparing the power of Ethiopia to the effects of Wakanda upon the Black psyche? If you aren't a member, you're missing out... Resources for this Episode: Wonderful Ethiopians of the Ancient Cushite Empire - Drusilla Dunjee Houston Ethiopia & the History Not Seen (DOCUMENTARY FILM) The Real Facts about Ethiopia - J.A. Rogers Harlem to Ethiopia, in Search of Their Spiritual Roots She Met Her Prince (for Real!) at a D.C. Nightclub

Black Christianity is different from White Christianity... Shouldn't be...but it is. It's the reality created by the sin of White supremacy. But more than simple conjecture...beyond simply throwing out some charged statement, what is the basis of this claim? What makes this claim undeniable? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RB8nad-vSJ0 "Slaves be obedient to your masters..." That's the legacy many of us think belongs to Black Christianity. And when - even in 2018 - I see Black Christians celebrating America's Founding Fathers with religious devotion, I can't help but think: We're still being obedient... But is that a true accounting of Black Christianity? Is Black Christianity really the docile faith that White supremacy gave us...or is there something more? Growing up in the Caribbean, I could never vibe with the weakheart identity of the Black Church. It was completely foreign to the Caribbean experience. Partly because most of the Caribbean was either liberated by revolt or has an undeniable legacy of revolt. Partly because the prevalence of Black leadership and the absence of White overseers changes your whole perspective. It's why, when I was in seminary, I felt free to challenge and criticize White supremacy in the seminary curriculum and on campus. Being from a Caribbean Diocese, I didn't have to worry that I wouldn't be ordained because I had pissed off White folk... Nevertheless, that dynamic of fear is prevalent in the US... Even the Black Church, at some level - if you get up high enough, answers to the Whites society. Black Christianity in America seems to have a responsibility to uphold White supremacy - if only to "protect" the faithful from White tyranny. The result is obedience to our (former) slave masters... But years ago I came across a priest who showed me something entirely different about Black Christianity...about the faith of African people in America. And what he shared completely transformed the way I viewed the Black Church - historically and in the present. It's transformed the way I embrace the Christian faith. And because it's so incredibly revealing, I had to share it with you in this episode. After you check it out, hop over to the Facebook group and engage the discussion. And if you aren't yet a member of the group...   What do you think of Fr. Alexii's view of the African Christian Faith? And how does that reframe your understanding of - and witness to - Christianity? Resources for this Episode: Wade in the River: The Story of the African Christian Faith Black Power: Our God-Given Call to Make America Great The Brotherhood of St. Moses the Black

Ancient Egypt, the Sphinx, the Pyramids... They are incredibly fascinating and draw us back to the greatest civilization. All "great civilizations" of the West have modeled themselves after Egypt. Ancient Egypt serves as the foundation for the idea of greatness. And it's greatest lesson for Black Identity might also be the most disturbing... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9JelHgDWgA But what else do we learn from Ancient Egypt? What do we learn about ourselves as Black people in America and about Black identity? Yes - as the world's greatest civilization, Ancient Egypt is a testimony to the ingenuity of Black people. The relics of Egypt stand as reminders of that greatness, dispelling the myths of Black inferiority. We love to - and should - look to Ancient Egypt for African pride. But there's a perspective on Egypt that is even more powerful, yet often ignored... This perspective is one that is of great benefit to understanding our position and place as Black people in America. It helps us to reshape Black identity and gives purpose to the Black experience that will enable us to be better at making #BlackLivesMatter. This basic understanding about Egypt and America is what forms the basis of Black Power: Our God-Given Call to Make America Great. So how do you reconcile the reality about Egypt that I share in this episode? What does that do to your framing of Black identity in America? Let's discuss these lessons from Ancient Egypt in the Blacks with Power Facebook Group! You can join the group and add your voice to the discussion by clicking the banner above. Resources For This Episode: Putting Blacks in Their Place Racial Heresy Black Power: Our God-Give Call to Make America Great Egypt on the Potomac

In publishing my book, Black Power: Our God-Given Call to Make America Great, I ended up taking a hiatus from producing this podcast. And that hiatus has helped reframe the show in transformative ways! And in this episode, I share how those changes will be transformative for you! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oA2tC8AvyWo We've got to be more intentional about everything, if we're going to be prepared for the political and economic struggles facing Black people in America and beyond. And I have to practice what I preach. So, I spent some time asking myself questions to clarify the Black Power Mission. What would really make a show entitled Blacks with Power resonate with you? What would make the concept of Black Power more embraceable? I know, many of us have a touchy relationship with Black power. White supremacy has made us afraid to embrace it. The narrative on Black power is that it's somehow dangerous and therefore undesirable. In America, to embrace Black power is essentially to ostracize yourself and upset any chance of enjoying a good life. But what if that did not have to be the case? Even better - what if Black power were actually the key to Black people securing "the blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our posterity?" Would you embrace it then? In order to help you decide to embrace this concept more openly, I'm going to spend this season releasing shows to further explain how I view Black Power. And, I'm relying on your open and honest questions and comments. So pay attention to that final question I ask in this episode. Then join the Facebook group and let's have a real - solutions oriented - conversation. I'd love to know your thoughts and our group will benefit from your presence. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Black Power: Our God-Given Call to Make America Great Blacks with Power Facebook Group  

Afro-Latinos...how many times do you consider the in the equation of #BlackLivesMatter? When Hispanic groups ask for Black American assistance in their fight for equality, do you take stock of the issues from the perspective of Afro-Latinos? It's a conversation we definitely need to have... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0kSuOVaYvj4 When I worked on Capitol Hill, I focused heavily on the issues affecting Afro-Latinos. So, I'm familiar with the issues. And it's always been baffling that Afro-Latinos don't seem to fit in anywhere. Black Americans rarely consider them; the Hispanic community rarely considers them. I mean: remember the murders of Diego Ortiz and Miguel de Jesus? Probably not...no movement was birthed to seek justice for the two Afro-Latinos. Not from the Black community...not from the Hispanic community. There was one rally in support of the two men, which drew only about a dozen people. So, the strange thing is: Ortiz and de Jesus are part of both communities. Where's the Place for Afro-Latinos? Afro-Latinos live in a no-man's land between Black and Hispanic, where they belong fully to neither and are forgotten by both. What does that do the the Afro-Latino community? What does that do to the Black American community? How does this reality hurt both communities? And what opportunities are possible if we reconcile that dynamic? I spoke with Orlando Addison, founder of the Ernesto Gamboa Project, about these and other questions. The Ernesto Gamboa Project exists to celebrate the culture of Afro-Latinos. It also works to establish deeper connections between communities of African descendant peoples. This will help Afro-Latinos assert their place in the conversation on making Black lives matter in the United States and Latin America. So what do you think of the potential for connections between Afro-Latinos and Black Americans? What hinders conversation and connection? And how can we reconcile those communities? Let's continue the discussion in the group! Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Afro-Latino Heritage Excellence Summit 2018 Orlando Addison's Author Page Ernesto Gamboa (English Edition)

Public Health concerns are a critical piece to understanding the complexities of the Black experience. It's part of the issue that keeps us from creating a cohesive socio-economic political agenda to advance the Black community. Consider it like this: who can think straight when they are sick? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6v0SSqC2XmA And like Malcolm said, Black people in America are "sickest of all politically." That sounds hyperbolic...sounds like exaggeration. But, look at our social condition and our place in American society. And yes, White supremacy is the root of that. But by now, shouldn't we have come up with a strategy to trample down white supremacy? I believe so...and that's why I look at our struggle as deeply rooted in public health. We have to be sick...and maybe if we heal the sickness, we might be able to create a winning strategy to bring Liberty and Justice to our people - and to this Country. I've read enough sociological works to attest to this premise. My favorite is Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome. In this work, Dr. Degruy speaks of the experience of slavery - and subsequently Jim Crow - as an experience that created a psychological condition akin to post traumatic stress disorder. However, this psychosis is passed on subconsciously through the generations. Similar to white privilege in that people get it without knowing, all western Blacks are affected by this syndrome - without either knowing or wanting to be. Yet, this if further compounded for Blacks in neighborhoods rampant with drugs and crime. For those still in such communities, there is an added level of PTSD.  But I'm not public health professional. So, I thought it would spend some time with one! Okey K. Enyia is a public health professional who has also served as a Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Health Policy Fellow. So he definitely understands both the public health and policy perspectives of Black empowerment. I encourage you to listen to this conversation and respond to his challenges on creating a political agenda that would move our people forward. Join the Public Health Discussion on Facebook! What do you think? We would love to have your thoughts and engagement. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome - Dr. Joy DeGruy The Autobiography of Malcolm X They Schools - Dead Prez Okey K. Enyia on LinkedIn

Black identity has always been threatening to American Society. It's long been debated and suppressed. Black folk ourselves are the worst purveyors of this fear of a Black identity, because at several checkpoints in our American sojourn we have - en masse - encouraged each other to deny our Blackness in favor of the "American melting pot." And this fear is the subject of a recent FBI report that should have us concerned. (Article continues below) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zJi2pTVuLo Yes - there was the Black Power movement of the 70s and who could forget James Brown imploring us to "say it loud" that we are Black and proud? But then we must also understand the only reason that song was necessary is because that statement was not something that was usually proclaimed loudly - if at all. And yes, we must remember the "Ideological Origins of Black Nationalism." In those early days of struggle, before emancipation and before Frederick Douglass helped shift the perspective of Black Americans, establishing a strong Black identity was seen as the necessary thing to securing and maintaining Liberty. Yet over time Blacks were overwhelmingly convinced that having such an identity was a negative thing. The way forward was assimilation masked as integration, where our Blackness would melt away and all that remained would be our (White) Americanness. Generations of Blacks have bought into that idea - only to later be brokenhearted. After years of fighting Marcus Garvey's efforts to establish a strong Black identity and convincing the Black elite to buy into assimilation, W.E.B. DuBois ultimately went "Back to Africa" and admitted that "Marcus Garvey was right." Even still - after centuries of evidence to the contrary, Black elites are still afraid of asserting their Black identity. Hell, Black leadership in the Episcopal Church have stated their belief that "establishing a strong Black identity is not the way" to make Black lives matter in America. Still, we are being told to rely on the mercy of the White power structure and trust in their benevolence - despite continued evidence of malevolence. Black Identity is a Threat to White Supremacy And yet, the Black elite wonder why Black identity is still classified as a treat to America. And they're "upset" by this FBI report, and the surveillance implications of this report...demanding that the FBI take a different response. But especially in the Trump Administration, should we really expect anything different to be done? In this episode, I provide an alternative response to this FBI report and to the "threat of Black identity extremists" - whatever the hell that means... What do you say? Should we continue to hope the Government will just do right by our people? Or should we find a way to make them do right? And if you agree it is our responsibility as "we the People" to shape the Government, then how do you respond to my suggestion? Do you have an alternative? Let's work out the solution in the group! Join the private Facebook group and let's hash this out in a "safe space" for dialogue. The tone of this report is indeed threatening. The question becomes, what do we do in response? And that solution should be one we've worked out, together...right? Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Black Identity Extremists Likely Motivated to Target Law Enforcement Officers Black Identity Extremist (Detailed Definition & Explanation) Rep. Bass Grills AG Sessions On "Black Extremism" Shelia Jackson Lee Grills Sessions About Black Identity Extremists    

Some Doitall to be the Chief Rocka, and that's certainly cool. But once you've established your position as one of the illest to rock a mic, what's next? Once you prove you can move the crowd to uncontrollably nod their heads and shake their bodies, what's the next challenge for a true Emcee? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dneyrzknTrw Back before hiphop had the club going up on a Tuesday to pop bottles and skeet all over the walls, the art form was known as the Black CNN - informing the community of those things that the media wouldn't cover. The Emcee would narrate the culture or comfort those wounded by life's struggle. Folk knew when they grabbed the mic it's "All eyez on me." And they'd embrace that reality, telling the masses to "listen up, I got a story to tell." Even when they fell victim to the system and the stereotypes, they were clear on the enemy. And through their posture of protest they built hiphop - brick by brick - into a billion dollar empire. These pioneers and the soldiers who followed created a music that changed the social landscape. Hiphop became pop culture. By permeating the lives of folk everywhere, hiphop culture has transformed the larger culture - even if only on the surface. When you see this power, you gotta wonder what else hiphop can accomplish. How else can a good Emcee move a new crowd...a different crowd...a crowd with far more power? What more can hiphop do? Hiphop Can Doitall And Doitall Dupré Kelly is a Lord of the Underground poised to bum rush the establishment. Having spent over 25 years in hiphop living and observing the culture...recording the culture and narrating the culture on behalf of the people, Doitall has determined that a good Emcee must take things to a greater level and move a crowd that has the power to change Society in tangible ways. In this episode, he and I chop it up about his City Council campaign in Newark, NJ and the potential power the Black community can harness if and when other artists follow his lead. So, I want you to check out this episode and Doitall's perspective. What do you think? Do you think it's time for some of these artists to take on greater leadership? Which artists do you think are responsible enough to actually be effective in this space? Join the Dialogue in our Facebook Group! Click the banner above and complete the short application to join this solutions oriented and safe space for Black empowerment. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Doitall For Newark Chief Rocka - Lords of the Underground Lords of the Underground

Pledging is the answer for everyone, when that is the choice. No one wants hazing, right? But surely skating isn't the answer either. Both skating and hazing have produced lackluster brothers and sisters incapable of living up to the high moral standards of our various Fraternities and Sororities. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rXSbvMemylA In these days of racial turmoil, we need strong leadership that has been prepared for the battles we must face in the fight for freedom and justice. But skaters lack the tenacity and endurance to commit to a fight that is bigger than themselves. And those who've been hazed lack the unity...the brotherhood and sisterhood needed to move as one. In the Name of the Lord, I stand firm in my belief in pledging as being an important part of the process for making men and women with the tenacity and endurance for the battles we face as a people, and the ability to form like Voltron to benefit from the strength in numbers. (If you don't know what it means to "form like Voltron," click here.) But pledging isn't an option for many. In many circles the choice is between hazing and skating. And we know the culture prefers hazing over skating - right? Skating protects the brand, but slowly erodes the culture. But things go wrong real quick when hazing is involved. I know how things can go wrong, and in this episode I am joined by my ADP (Assistant Dean of Pledging) to discuss what goes wrong, how it goes wrong and how to make it right. He and I share candidly about our journey together: how things fell apart and how we worked toward reconciliation. This is a personal sharing...and we end by asking you to get personal as well. Pledging vs. Hazing vs. Skating: Where do YOU stand? No...I'm not asking you to share that here. We have a safe space for you to share. Click the banner below to apply. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Virgin Islands United: Help the Hurricane relief efforts in the US Virgin Islands Defacing the Music by Reggie Legend Manu Forti Ministries

The Black Star line needs to be reborn. Many of you won’t know what that is…and that’s cool: that’s why you have me! LOL In the 1920’s, the Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey had amassed a global membership of more than 12 million members in the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League. It scared a lot of people…a lot of White Supremacists and Lamb Chop’s Play Along Negroes who had a vested interest in protecting massa’s house. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5ayBJopYGI The threat level jumped to an all-new level when Garvey proposed the Black Star Line: a shipping line that would connect the African Diaspora both as people and with the goods and tools necessary for development. It was a move toward independence and an ability for Black people worldwide, to help Black people worldwide. The Black Star Line was the Key to Garvey’s Back to Africa Philosophy But, “Back to Africa” wasn’t about all of us getting back on boats and migrating to Africa. Back to Africa was a way of thought…a way of life: a conception that has us look to the African Diaspora first. To look to ourselves for help, to be equipped to help ourselves, so we no longer are left waiting for the benevolence of malevolent people. Similar to the Jewish/Zionist model - with Israel as their base and focus, "Back to Africa” is an ideology that would ultimately make Black lives matter throughout the world. (If you think it’s time to stop waiting and start making Black lives matter, download this free eBook) This becomes of critical importance in these times of disaster. As White supremacist greed compels Western Civilization to deny global warming in hopes to continue asserting Western hegemony, non-White people suffer. And in the relief efforts, the focus is always on rebuilding White areas, getting resources to White people, while non-White people are made to wait. One of the many things Dr. King was spot on about is “Why We Can't Wait.” The problem is, without our own way to provide relief and aid in development we have no choice but to wait. That exploration is the focus of this episode, and the questions raised are important. So, I really hope you would click the banner & join the Facebook group so we can continue the discussion. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Black Star Line Virgin Islands Worldwide American Black Cross

Redemption: thanks be to God, it's a possibility. I mean, if we're stuck being the people we once were...if we're stuck with the reputations we foolishly established, who of us could be good? Right? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tt-ZCgK8X9M But, the reality of redemption isn't license for foolishness. Redemption isn't some sort of magic potion, given to those who learn to say "Jesus." It's a journey that we must walk. Like a new instrument - or maybe a set of turntables (or whatever folk are "DJing" on now), redemption is a gift. But that gift will do you no good unless you learn how to use it. So what is the road to redemption and what does it mean to walk it? And once you walk it for yourself - how do you pay that forward? This is the focus of my conversation with Reggie Kee. Reggie was my ADP: responsible for (ehem) "instilling" in me a love for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Most people who know us both and know our experience would never believe that he and I got together for this conversation. That story alone is a prime example of walking the road to redemption...but, we'll tell you more about that on the show. Reggie shares his lessons with his family, and they embrace the power of the word with deep purpose. You can read more about that story in the Chicago Tribune. Both he and his 9 year old son, Josiah, are published authors. And that's another important piece of the discussion that you don't want to miss...it'll change the way you consider influencing the next generation. Ultimately, I want to know how you are traveling the road to redemption. What are your triumphs along the way? What are your struggles on this journey? I know that is personal. And that's why I invite you to apply for membership in our safe space for Black empowerment. Click the banner below to get started: Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Steel Waters, Vol. 1: DUPLicate AuthentICITY Defacing the Music: What Slips into the Grooves Once God Gets Removed Chronicles of an Uncommon Kid (Volume 1)

Confederate monuments have become a major topic of discussion lately. Some people want to see them come down. Others want to see them stay up. What is the best way forward? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIVZozGGRM8 I've always thought the Confederacy was treasonous. I've always found it strange that somehow Americans were able to justify treason and graft it in as a celebrated part of history. And I've always thought that Confederate monuments were in fact monuments to treason. Confederate Monuments are Monuments to White Supremacy And it's well beyond time that we hold America accountable for its love of White Supremacy. These Confederate monuments have been erected all over the Country. In both the North and South there are celebrations of Confederate soldiers and other advocates. And the rallying cry is always "Heritage not Hate." My response has always been: "It's a heritage OF hate!" I've recently started reading a very expository book: The Confederate and Neo-Confederate Reader. If you're a nerd, like me, then you'll be fascinated by the disconnect between those who celebrate the South today and those who founded the Confederacy. They make it clear that the Confederacy was founded on what they identified as the "great truth that the negro is not equal to the white man; that slavery subordination to the superior race is his natural and normal condition." It also speaks of how while the South lost the battle, it ultimately won the Civil War. The ideologues of White Supremacy figured that although they lost: "If white supremacy could be reestablished (throughout America)...then the South 'really triumphs in the true cause of the war, with respect to all its fundamental and vital issues.'" White supremacy has indeed been established as the unwritten rule of the Country. And both the South and North have bought into the "great truth." The institutions of this Country have been built upon this "great truth." Confederate monuments are little more than reminders that we should stay in line with that "great truth." So, what do we do with Confederate Monuments? Click the banner above to join the Blacks with Power Facebook Group and let's discuss steps to solution that doesn't simply remove Confederate monuments while leaving White Supremacy in place.

Colin Kaepernick is effectively banned from the NFL - not for criminal activity...not for domestic violence...not even for dog fighting or performance enhancement drugs. Kaepernick is banned for having a conscience and resolving to be more than a dumb jock. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gW_iktgFyaM I know there are people trying to force the NFL to lift the silent ban on Kaepernick. I agree with what Shaun King is saying in this article. But I don't feel like begging the NFL to give him a job. I much rather cause the NFL to lose sponsors and money. I'm not really sure how to organize all of that. But I would imagine it would take identifying top NFL sponsors. Maybe targeting teams with dubious quarterback situations... Maybe it's all of that - and also supporting the work of the Colin Kaepernick Foundation. And that's the focus of the discussion in this episode. And in this episode, more than any other, I'm really encouraging you to join the Facebook Group if you're not already a member. It's a safe space, free from trolls, that enables us to strategize. We've seen this before... And while yes, Muhammad Ali is still the GOAT, he suffered banishment from boxing and public ridicule for three years, before people realized he was right about his Vietnam War protest. So what are your thoughts for how we an support Colin Kaepernick beyond simply pressuring the NFL to give him a job? Join the discussion in our Facebook group and let's stand with those who stand for us. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Muhammad Ali and Vietnam David Suskind Calling Ali a Disgrace Rep. Peter King on Colin Kaepernick Tim Brown on Anthem Protest

Training effectively is the key to being on the top of your game. And, with the racist White Supremacist terror of the past week, I think it's become clear that we have to change course...we have to play the game differently and better...become more self-reliant. When only 51% of the Country believes President Trump's response to White Supremacy was weak, we have to consider how safe we are - as Black people - with the other 49% of America. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36t0Ol7_B0w In the face of the racist vitriol masquerading as leadership in America, it should be clear: we can rely only on ourselves and our God. I recorded this episode and slated it to go live this week before the terror of Charlottesville. And while the episode doesn't directly address that event, what remains is true is the importance of the message. If we're to find Liberty and advance the Cause of Freedom, it will be because we have been trained to defeat White Supremacy. We must train our youth to be great...to prepare them for excellence...to expect excellence. That's why I wanted to speak with Brandon Okpalobi, Founder and CEO of DIBIA Atheletic & DIBIA Dream. In this episode, we discuss the steps to creating a unified sense of identity among African people throughout the Diaspora and how that identity can help prepare us to face the challenges of this time. What do you think should define "greatness" for Black people - in this present climate? How do you think we should be training our youth to be great? Click the Banner, Join the Group, and Share Your Thoughts Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Reparations and the Foundation of Black Power

"The Real" is a daytime talkshow similar to the View, but features a cast that is all women of color. Shows like this are powerful in shaping popular culture and the discussions that we have in Society. Even if you don't watch them, you should know that TV talkshows are deconstructing Society and shaping the future of culture. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_1J0eLOI3o "How," you might ask? Well, take this excerpt from Penn State's archives: As we watch, listen, and are entertained, TV talk shows are rewriting our cultural scripts, altering our perceptions, our social relationships, and our relationships to the natural world.  So let me tell you the real: whether you think conversations are too shallow or too deep, if it's on TV it has the power to influence Society. And that's a power to which we should pay attention, because if we harness the power of Social Media we can "rewrite the cultural scripts" on American Racism, "alter the perceptions" held by racists in our Society and change our relationship to those around us. Wouldn't that be something? The question then becomes, how do we of the Talented Tenth position ourselves to shape the conversations that will shape culture. And that's the gist of the conversation on this episode of Blacks with Power. Jessica Johnson is the Social Media Producer for The Real. From that vantage point she is responsible for bringing conversations from Social Media to the show. She shares her perspectives on the Social Media landscape and it's potential for Black empowerment. What do you think? What is the power of social media and how can you make better use of it? Click the banner and tell us the real! Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Leaders of the New School Marcus Garvey and the Universal Negro Improvement Association

Ain't no reason or explanation for a Black Republican... That's what many of "us" would say. And as a result, Black Republicans spend their time defending themselves for being Republican rather than sharing how they see themselves sharing in the progress of our people. So, I wanted to give Kimberly Klacik her opportunity to freely share her perspective so you can get to know her. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y900TIud1xA Now, typically when we see a Black Republican s/he is selling out the Black Community. But, I would also say that Black Democrats are selling out the Black Community as well. In both cases, I think we need to take time to know these voices on a deeper level - to understand their motivations. You see, when combating propaganda, we must be in the right positions. We must not only be at the table, we must also have a controlling seat at the table...we must ultimately own our own tables. And the reality is that we need commentators on all sides of the argument that will represent the Black perspective. NewsOne Now with Roland Martin is the only Black produced & focused news on TV. So, it's the place where you are introduced to a variety of Black voices. But with any news show, you don't have the chance to really get to know the person behind the commentary. In this episode of Blacks with Power, Kimberly Klacik talks about her work with young women in Baltimore, MD through her nonprofit Potential Me, as well as what makes her a Republican and how she lives out her particular commitment to the Black community as a Black Republican. So what do you think? Is there benefit to having strong commentators to represent our interests on both sides of the political spectrum? Or why do you think that relying on the Democrat side is a viable strategy? Click the Banner...Join the Group and know that you're sharing your ideas and questions in a safe space. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Potential Me

Lee Merritt, the rapper turned poet and Civil Rights Attorney is on the front lines with those being wounded in the struggle for the mattering of Black lives. Marlin Gipson, Jordan Edwards, Jacqueline Craig and others...Lee has been with them trying to tend to their wounds and advocate on their behalf. And in this episode, he shares his larger vision for the legal struggle to make Black lives matter in America. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTvg-BB06tI Oh yes - Lee dropped a verse at the end of this interview! And I want to get him to share more... But to get to that larger vision will take more than Attorney Lee Merritt representing clients when the frequent need arises. It takes a village, right? Not just an attorney...not just several attorneys. So the question becomes, how do we play our part? And that's part of the discussion for this episode. Because we have to have some solutions, right? Don't get me wrong...I'm grateful for Lee Merritt, Darryl Parks, Aramis Ayala, Benjamin Crump, Greg Francis, others I don't know to name and so many more I'm sure. (Please add the names of others so I can learn of their efforts...even if that other is yourself! LOL) We have to have more than an army of Attorneys. I mean, we do need more attorneys. Listen to the absolutely crazy statistics on Black lawyers shared in the conversation I had with Yusuf Kareem of the Law School Admissions Council. But all the attorneys in the world ain't gon ensure the Justice system works to protect and advance the freedoms of Black people. It takes many things for sure. But Attorney Lee Merritt wants to share his vision from his perspective, and I think it definitely needs to be a component to our strategy. But what do you think? Do you report the police when you've experienced discrimination? Why or why not? Should Jury Duty be part of the strategy and what type of teachings/programs do you think would help add Jury Duty as a major reason for registering to vote, and as a major component of the fight for justice? I want to hear from you... Click the banner and become part of the solution to making Black lives matter in America. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Johnnie Cochran's Civil Rights Legacy Pedro Hernandez John RK Howard rape trial Woke Folks (Facebook group as website isn't live at time of this post)

Our elders pave the way...it's because of them that we are where we are...even if we aren't there yet! LOL There's wisdom with the elders and we should take care to hear from them and learn from them. The wisdom must be deep with John Wills, who built the Black Empowered Men Facebook group to over TWENTY THOUSAND members! We talked about the various reasons that went into him creating the group and his thoughts on what it means for Black men to be empowered. Of course, questions about forgiveness came up and Mr. Wills mentioned why he thought we - Black people - forgive too soon. What do you think about forgiveness? What are your questions about it or struggles with it? I'd love to know your thoughts. Share your questions on Forgiveness What started as an opportunity to get to know the founder of such a prominent group, turned into a potential regular segment for Blacks with Power, "At the Feet of the Elders." Who knows...the name might change: what do you think? Maybe a better format can be developed... But, I think it's important for us to take some time to listen to the elders and learn what they have to teach us about Black empowerment. Speaking of the lessons from our elders...every Wednesday is Wisdom Wednesdays in the BWP Facebook Group! Share the quote that's impacting you most, and be motivated by the quotes shared by others. Join our Facebook Community! Resources Mentioned in this Episode: The True Believer: Thoughts on the Nature of Mass Movements

Marriage is a tool that can enhance our journey to the Promised Land, if we use it well. It is also a tool that can leave us in a ditch alongside the Way. As Black people, with a spiritual/metaphorical relationship with "the Plantation," we should particularly understand how a strong marriage can keep you on course to Liberty and keep watch over your blindspots so you aren't captured by the hounds. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hswzpHAQeM This week, Sonya and I are on retreat: to give thanks for another year of determining to travel the Way together and to discern how we should continue along the Way...who we need to be and what we need to do, to be better at traveling the Way to the Promised Land. Only For Men who are Committed to Love: Download the free guide It's a special time we've committed to cherish, and thanks be to God we've held to thus far. And in this episode, I share some of the reasoning why I think this type of practice is important. I think it's particularly important for me, as a husband, to be a leader in this space. And, I think this investment of effort yields a great reward. But it ain't for the fainthearted. Even Jay-Z learned that at 4:44! LOL What do you think? What do you do? Join the Conversation in our Facebook Group! Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Help Me Love Her guide for Men Game Changer: How to Find a Championship Love

What if we already have the power we need to put an end to the madness and make Black Lives Matter? I'm talking reparations. It always comes around to this. But typical approaches to reparations consist of demands we don't have the power to enforce. Let's talk about a different way... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uCYWMLH_bDg The reality is that something has got to change, right? Clearly, what we've thought we had accomplished isn't quite accomplished. The system we've used to get this far now seems broken. The hopes have been broken of those who depend upon an effective system for overcoming. So how do we fix this? How do we repair the breach? If you've downloaded your copy of Reparations: The Foundation for Black Power, you know what I'm talking about. If you haven't read that guide book, then download your free copy here. After all the racial flare-ups in America, it's important that we consider the end goal of any effort. The stakes are too high for us to keep darting around like squirrels from one objective to the next, right? I hope you'd agree with that... What we've seen time and time again is that "the Black man has no rights that the White man is bound to respect." (The More You Know...) And White America doesn't have to respect our right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness because we aren't independent enough to MAKE them. And we seem to be okay with that power dynamic... Reparations is KEY to Making Black Lives Matter! If Black Lives are going to matter, then we have to get clear on what we believe about the value of Black Lives. And that is real reparations. So, when you hear my explanation/definition of reparations how do you respond? You can leave your comment here or in our exclusive Facebook group. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Reparations: the Foundation of Black Power Steven Covey - The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People KRS-One: Black Cop