Analysis: The State of the Black Union

As is the fiscal state of the American Union, the State of the Black Union is economically bad but not hopeless. The adage holds true that when America gets a cold, Black America gets pneumonia. Yet, through the sick times, Black people have joy, resilien

As is the fiscal state of the American Union, the State of the Black Union is economically bad, but not hopeless. The adage holds true that when America gets a cold, Black America gets pneumonia. Yet, through the sick times, Black people have joy, resilience and intellectual integrity.

Mainly, African Americans have dealt with determination decades of “depressions.”

Tavis Smiley recently hosted the 10th Anniversary of the State of the Black Union, a national discussion by academics, activists and tests of issues impacting Black America. The collective conversation has elevated Black issues to the American consciousness. Some may say there are no “Black” issues but rather “American” issues. Not true. Issues of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness – or the lack thereof – are, in many ways, singular to African Americans due to our unique history in the United States of America.

For example, Black people remain in the worst or most vulnerable position in health care, education, criminal justice, employment and asset ownership. As the SOBU discussion developed, several voices rose above the others in terms of clarity, brilliance, preparedness and effectiveness.

The Rev. Jesse. L. Jackson Sr., president and founder of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, and reigning and “heavy weight champion” of articulating the political policy issues affecting Black people, analyzed the current economic crisis by saying, “If American banks are given governmental loans at three percent and sell the money to American students at six percent, they are engaging in ‘scalping student loans’.”

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