A.G. Gaston believed that Black economic power was the path to true liberation. He saw wealth as the key to breaking the cycle of oppression. He built institutions that served Black people in an era where few others did. His success proved that Black communities could create their own wealth, their own businesses, and their own economies. His life laid out a blueprint for financial independence, proving that ownership was not just about money but about power, survival, and dignity.
Tag: Racism
Redefining the Impact of White Individuals on Social Constructs
In the vast tapestry of our world, the influence of social constructs and their impact on society looms large. Throughout history, certain social constructs have been erected and dismantled, often with white individuals at the forefront. This blog aims to delve deep into this intricate realm, shedding light on the instances where white individuals have wielded significant influence in shaping social constructs. It is an exploration of the intersection where gender and race converge, unraveling the intricate dynamics of power, privilege, racism, and equality. One cannot deny the indelible mark left by white individuals on social constructs. Take Carl Linnaeus, the renowned Swedish botanist, for example. His meticulous classification of humanity into racial groups birthed the abhorrent concept of scientific racism, perpetuating racial hierarchies and providing a foundation for discriminatory practices. Similarly, the eugenics movement, though not exclusive to white individuals, found acceptance in Western societies, resulting in forced sterilizations and systemic discrimination against marginalized communities. History tells tales of white figures who exploited their positions of power to perpetuate and justify racial oppression. These instances expose the troubling truth that social constructs can be wielded as weapons, enforcing inequality and sowing suffering. Such realities prompt us to examine the complex relationship between race and gender, where intersecting identities shape experiences, opportunities, and privileges. However, there is a pressing concern to be addressed—an impregnable shield created by gender that deflects conversations about racism and equality. Power dynamics and privilege influence perspectives, hindering a comprehensive understanding of the lived realities of marginalized racial groups. By unmasking this veil and scrutinizing these dynamics without hesitation, we can reveal the trials faced by diverse communities, paving the way toward a more inclusive society. The path to progress lies in embracing intersectionality—the convergence of gender and race. By confronting the distinct struggles experienced by different communities, we can dismantle oppressive social constructs. This endeavor requires the active engagement of individuals of all races, as unity is the key to forging a future steeped in equity and justice. In conclusion, the influence of white individuals on social constructs throughout history cannot be overlooked. Understanding this impact and its intersections with gender and race is crucial in dismantling oppressive systems and striving for a more inclusive and just society. By examining our past, addressing present issues, and actively working toward a better future, we redefine the role of white individuals in shaping social constructs, ultimately paving the way for a more equitable world.
Unveiling the Dark Past: Forced Sterilization and Castration – A Haunting Chapter in History
In the shadows of our history lie stories so chilling, so grotesque, that they haunt our collective memory. Forced sterilization and castration, once hidden from the public eye, emerge as macabre chapters in the annals of power and control. These atrocities, driven by deeply ingrained prejudices and fueled by white supremacist ideologies, left indelible scars on the lives of marginalized communities. Imagine a world where individuals, solely based on their race or perceived undesirability, were robbed of their ability to bear children. The very essence of reproductive autonomy torn asunder, generations of Indigenous and melanated women were subjected to this grave violation. Their bodies, once a symbol of life and resilience, were subjected to the whims of those who sought to manipulate the genetic fabric of society. And the cries of injustice, muted by a complicit system, echoed through the corridors of time. But it was not only women who bore the brunt of this abomination. Black men, their bodies already burdened by the weight of oppression, faced an even more insidious fate. Castration, an act of unspeakable violence, sought to emasculate them, stripping away their agency and reducing them to objects of domination. This calculated assault on their humanity was designed to reinforce a social order built on the subjugation of black bodies. As we grapple with the horrors of this past, we are confronted with difficult questions. Why have these atrocities been shrouded in silence? Why has the truth been relegated to the fringes of our historical narrative? The answers lie in a systemic erasure, a deliberate act to conceal the sins of the past and perpetuate a distorted reality. To confront this dark chapter head-on is to unveil the truth, no matter how painful it may be. It is an act of remembrance, a solemn commitment to honor the victims and acknowledge the depths of human depravity. By bringing these stories to light, we reclaim their voices and ensure that the atrocities they endured will not be forgotten. In the face of this haunting history, we must bear witness and seek justice. We must learn from the past to forge a future where such atrocities are never repeated. The journey towards healing and reconciliation begins with acknowledging the darkness within our own narratives and working tirelessly to dismantle the structures that allowed these horrors to unfold. May the echoes of the past guide us towards a more just and compassionate society, where the dignity and autonomy of every individual are upheld, and the shadows of forced sterilization and castration are forever banished from our collective consciousness.
Black History Lesson Plan Workshop at the Burke Museum: Promoting Black History Education
The Black History Lesson Plan Workshop held at the Burke Museum on February 25th, 2023, brought educators, administrators, and community members together to explore the importance of Black history education and share resources and strategies for incorporating Black history into teaching and learning.
Breaking the Chains of Outdated Invoicing: A Call to Action for Small Business Equity
The current invoicing system is simply not designed to support small businesses like mine. The practice of paying small businesses, especially minority-owned businesses, a month or more after the work has been completed is unjust and unfair. This outdated system causes immense harm to small business owners and their day-to-day operations and needs to be changed.
Jalen Hurts and Patrick Mahomes make history
As a sports fan and teacher, the significance of two Black quarterbacks in the Super Bowl this year cannot be overstated. Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs and Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles represent a breakthrough in the NFL and American society. Black athletes have been denied opportunities in leadership positions for years, … Continue reading Jalen Hurts and Patrick Mahomes make history
If it was just a job, say that!
I have no doubt that the lack of resources created enormous obstacles that he will not have to deal with during his time in Colorado, but Prime was more powerful at JSU than he will be at Colorado in the eyes of the NCAA. Sure, he will flip recruits, revive the Pac-10 and win, but his impact at JSU was much more critical to the Black community and College Football. While he was at Jackson State, he was on the verge of changing the landscape of college sports and, to a lesser degree, professional Football as well! How long, I don't know. Not my place to say. In a lot of ways, I am being selfish. The impact of desegregation on all industries, including Education and Sports, is fully evident, as Black Players, who make up the large majority in Football and Basketball, would rather play in leagues owned almost exclusively by white men.
What should we think about Jerry Jones?
"Jones admitted last week that he was pictured among the crowd but said he had only joined in the confrontation because he was curious about what was happening as civil rights clashes spread throughout the south — and not because he was harboring any racist feelings." Jerry Jones admitted he was one of the young … Continue reading What should we think about Jerry Jones?
Stress, Hostility, Depression, Hopelessness, and Job control
If your curriculum doesn't address these five areas, it does not address the psychosocial reality Black boys and men face. Whether they acknowledge it or not. To address some of these areas, you need more than a teacher. You need more than a therapist. You need an environment free from the constraints that traditional schooling … Continue reading Stress, Hostility, Depression, Hopelessness, and Job control
Are Black Immigrants guests to Black American Culture?
Black Immigrants are not guests of Black American Culture. Instead, they may be new, but they definitely contribute to Black American Culture.







