For Our Grandchildren: Protecting History, Shaping Tomorrow

 

There is an Igbo proverb that goes something like this. “For the man who is unable to determine where the rain first began to beat down upon his body, he is then powerless to determine where to first dry himself off.” Lose interpretation - Understand (and protect) history because it’s the foundation for the future.

 

The racist’s playbook brands diversity as a dangerous idea in American life and vilifies  people; Black, White and otherwise, and institutions who speak honestly about history and society, including the truth about slavery. The racist elements in our country emboldened and supported by an indifferent and callous federal administration wish to transform and whitewash all aspects of society, including our largest and most diverse cities, starting with Washington D.C. and by erasing true history and our accomplishment in order to transform cultural institutions, museums and monuments into celebrations commemorating White rule and it’s perceived and manufactured success. 

 

They’ll be successful only if, “We the people,”  all of us regardless of our differences, allow it by ignoring the threats, and hesitate on looking for ways to collaborate with others who don’t look like us. This includes being lackluster in the midterm elections. As we go about our days, we can find the time to get involved no matter how small the effort, just get involved and do something if it’s nothing more than spreading the word during everyday conversations and in between breaks while line dancing or “Steppin.” 

 

I’m going to continue to live life but I refuse by doing nothing, to let the future slip away especially for my brand new baby granddaughter and all the other grandchildren and great grandchildren that we owe a fighting chance for a civilized future. We must do more than just complain. A wise man once said, “Do something for self first, then you will be able to do for others.” Get creative!