YOU! HOLD THE KEY TO CHANGE | Conversations and Questions

BY DR. ELLEN BROWN

Black Americans are talking. 

Through my interactions with friends, family, colleagues, and media, it is abundantly clear that the conflicting messages coming out of the White House bring forth more confusion than understanding! How does this affect the importance of Black voices? How can we know what the conversations are and how they affect Black communities and voters? 

Here are some options to consider: 

Accept it. The future is expectedly under the power of the reigning political leadership. Whether we look at the future of our livelihood through jobs, where we stand (and sit) on politically influenced decisions of Congress, or the legality of eliminating long-standing laws passed by Congress — a change is here! 

To keep our focus, sanity, and optimism, we must remember this is not the first (or last) time that the power structure of this country has enacted changes that will not be favorable to all groups of people. Each one of us must make choices — about what we will allow and what we will fight against with our voices and votes. 

Some ways to make a difference: 

• Pay attention to both sides of the political agenda. Every story has two sides, so make sure you can specifically and accurately identify yours. 
  
• Know your legislative leaders. Decide to make your voice heard. If something is not sitting right with you, send them a message. Google your representatives for state and federal offices and tell them what you think and feel. This is very important. Often, we dismiss the opportunity because we believe it will not be important to those in power; however, if we do nothing, there is no pressure on them, and the conclusion is that we don’t care. Or worse, it does not matter. 
  
• Encourage your inner circle of friends, co-workers, church members, and family to openly express themselves about what is going on. We are entitled to our opinions and our expressions. 

In summary, remember: there is no “they”; they are you, me, them, and us. The stakes are high. 

The president and the national-level leadership seem to be in place and sync. That fact does not automatically lead to our voices having no power. Never give up! We may not be able to change direction until the next election, but we can keep our voices heard loud and clear — creating a state of “taking another look” at the substantial population of America. 

You hold the key. Never give it up! 

I welcome your input, questions, and ideas for topics; feel free to send them to me at ebrown.nci@gmail.com