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Who are the Black leaders that work in collaboration with others to provide a rich environment for us all?
Many of our Black leaders stress individual effort or taking personal responsibility as a means to overcome conditions that are a detriment to many of us (Black folks). The assumption hints at a genetic disposition for not being responsible. I offer the following biological scenario to counter this assumption. Two identical seeds are planted thusly: one in rich dark soil and the other in clay-like soil. The one planted in rich dark soil flourishes while the other struggles to survive; however, they are both made of the same "genetic stuff". Should we remark that one is better than the other? Surely not! Sometimes we are just in the right place (best environment) at the right time (opportunity) with the "right stuff" (knowledge, skills and abilities). With that said, who among us best exhibits that other characteristic of living organisms--mainly structural organization. Unlike other organisms, humans structure their internal aspects as well as their external aspects to optimize conditions favorable to their existence. The human brain through a process of internalization does the same thing. Some developmental pyschologists define this process as intelligence. Consequently, as a result of lack of organization, some societies cannot effectively compete with other societies that are more organized. Is Black society intelligently organized? If so, where are our best examples?
In this issue of BMTT Spotlights, we highlight Black organizations that work cooperatively and tirelessly with others to set a rich environment in which we may all grow.