YOU! HOLD THE KEY TO CHANGE | Where are our Village families?

BY DR. ELLEN BROWN

Many people I spend time with lately are discussing the importance of sticking together. There is a significant concern about the direction this president is taking with cuts to essential and long-standing programs that the American people need. 

Among these programs are education, health, housing, child care, and reproductive care. From sweeping cuts to decades-long programs in these and many others, it appears that Washington is taking away opportunities for self-sustaining livelihoods that can reach back and continue hope. 

For decades, we leaned on the Village. And The Village still stands. 

Spending time within African-American communities will undoubtedly lead to a broader understanding of the meaning of The Village. Whether we are looking for or seeking to share support, the Village is in place and ready to offer support to varying extents. “Seek and ye shall find; knock and the door shall be opened.” 

We live in communities with overwhelming need; but we are also a nation of overwhelming wealth and resources. We see the need every time we leave our guarded gates to venture into our broader communities. Thankfully, resources do exist — but they are not automatically accessible to the needy individuals we encounter on the streets and in parking lots. 

Make America Great Again? America is great! Our livelihoods, as we have known them, are at risk of changing due to the rise of the current political leadership. 

What is at stake here affects all Americans — including those who may not yet realize they are included. Our daily lives will always be destined to change. That is progress. However, those affected should be included in those discussions and plans. We must engage in learning and understanding what is happening, and face the questions of how these expected sweeping changes will affect our lives and livelihoods. 

I’ll say it again: America is still great. It is the leadership that does not believe that to be true, and wants something different. Change is good! However, America has consistently pledged to be of the people, for the people, and by the people. Maybe we should ask the question: “Who are the recipients of your focus?” 

If you find yourself shaking your head, expressing a lack of understanding, and having conversations about the effects of the White House’s actions, here’s what to do: join a village, create a village, and work together to challenge the administration for the sake of sanity and The Village. Remember: there is no “They.” Me, You, and We hold the key to change. 

This article aims to raise awareness of this initiative. But awareness is just the first step. We need your help to spread this message. Please share it with your friends, family, business contacts, and congregations. 

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