“From Privilege to Power: Why Black and Brown Communities Must Stay Politically Engaged”
As a new commander-in-chief steps into the spotlight, it is imperative for Black and Brown communities to sharpen their focus on political developments, leadership dynamics, and the implications these changes bring to our daily lives. When prominent figures—often born into privilege—stand on stages and try to draw parallels between their gilded upbringings and the lived experiences of marginalized groups. Such attempts not only dismiss the structural inequities that persist but also highlight why we must stay vigilant in shaping our collective futures.
The Flawed Narrative of Privilege and Comparison
Recently, a prominent white figure with a history rooted in privilege tried to equate his upbringing with the challenges faced by Black children in America. Speaking before a Black audience, he suggested that resilience in the face of racism could be modeled after his own childhood—spent in the opulence of the Kennedy Compound, a symbol of wealth amassed through bootlegging in the 1920s and 1930s.
While this narrative might seem well-intentioned, it is an oversimplification that erases the deep-seated systemic barriers faced by Black and Brown communities. The story of “Nearest” Green, the first known African American master distiller and the man behind Jack Daniel’s whiskey, provides a stark contrast. Green’s contributions began under the shadow of slavery, yet his legacy was hidden for generations. The wealth and recognition he helped generate for others never benefited his family in the same way the Kennedy fortune uplifted their lineage.
This comparison is not just flawed—it is insulting. The experiences of Black and Brown communities cannot be reduced to lessons in bootstrapping from individuals whose privileges shielded them from systemic oppression. Instead of preaching resilience, such leaders should challenge the structures that perpetuate racism and inequality.
Why Racism Will Not End—But That’s Not the Point
It is no secret that racism is deeply ingrained in the fabric of America. From slavery to Jim Crow, redlining to mass incarceration, the systems of oppression have evolved but remain ever-present. Acknowledging this truth is not an admission of defeat but rather a call to action. Racism may never end, but we must refuse to tolerate it in silence. The responsibility lies not with us to “prove” our worth to the racist, but with society to hold racists accountable for their ignorance and bigotry.
When prominent leaders address Black audiences, they often focus on how we can rise above racism, as if the burden of change rests solely on our shoulders. Rarely do these same individuals turn to white audiences and demand that they confront their biases, educate themselves, and dismantle the systems that uphold racial inequality. This selective messaging reinforces the idea that Black and Brown people must endure the most societal change, a notion we must reject outright.
Retaliation: Redefining Resistance
To “retaliate” against racism does not mean adopting the tactics of our oppressors. Instead, it means asserting our dignity, demanding accountability, and actively working to dismantle systems of oppression. Here’s how Black and Brown communities can push back effectively:
- Engage Politically
Political engagement is one of the most powerful tools we have. Whether it is voting, organizing, or running for office, we must ensure that our voices are heard, and our interests represented. Leadership transitions, such as the election of a new commander-in-chief, bring opportunities to push for policies that address systemic inequalities. - Educate Ourselves and Our Communities
Knowledge is power. Understanding our history, rights, and the mechanism of power equips us to challenge racist narratives and policies effectively. The story of “Nearest” Green is a prime example of how uncovering hidden histories can inspire and empower future generations. - Build Economic Power
Economic independence is a cornerstone of resistance. Supporting Black-owned businesses, advocating for equitable workplace practices, and building generational wealth can help reduce the economic disparities that racism seeks to maintain. - Hold Leaders Accountable
Leaders who stand before us and preach resilience must also be challenged to act. It is not enough for them to tell us how to cope with racism—they must commit to dismantling it. This includes addressing inequities in education, healthcare, housing, and the justice system. - Refuse to Normalize Racism
Micro aggressions, slurs, and other forms of everyday racism must be confronted head-on. We have the right to demand respect and to create spaces where our voices are heard and our humanity recognized.
Why Black and Brown Voices Matter Now More Than Ever
As the nation faces political and cultural shifts, the stakes are higher than ever for Black and Brown communities. The policies and decisions made by those in power have direct and lasting impacts on our lives, from education and healthcare to criminal justice and economic opportunity. Staying informed and involved is not optional, it is essential.
The influence of privilege and power, as exemplified by the Kennedy family, reminds us of the disparities that continue to shape American society. While their wealth and influence allowed them to shape their destinies, the legacy of “Nearest” Green serves as a reminder of the untold contributions of Black and Brown people, often erased or minimized in the broader narrative.
Moving Beyond Tolerance to Transformation
The call to tolerate racism is a demand for complacency. Instead, we must shift the burden back to those who perpetuate it. Tolerance is not the goal—transformation is. White America must learn to tolerate the dismantling of the systems that uphold their privilege and embrace the changes needed for true equality.
Our communities have endured centuries of systemic oppression, yet we continue to rise. Our resilience is not in question. What we need now is a collective commitment to action, a refusal to accept empty platitudes, and a determination to build a future where our children can thrive without having to navigate the obstacles of racism and inequality.
Conclusion: The Urgency of Now
The transition of leadership offers a pivotal moment for Black and Brown communities to reassess, strategize, and act. We cannot afford to be passive observers in a system that seeks to marginalize us. Instead, we must become active participants, challenging the status quo, and demanding the change we deserve.
The stories of privilege and power—like that of the Kennedy family—serve as a stark reminder of the disparities we face. But the legacy of “Nearest” Green shows us the strength and ingenuity that define our communities. By staying engaged, educated, and empowered, we can ensure that our voices shape the future, even in the face of adversity.