B.F.C.E.M
Hello, today I speak with the intention of seeing a vision of mine brought into fruition. I speak as a Blackman who want to see his fellow black people to succeed by beginning to pool their funds together for their common good and mutual benefit. Although, I am quite sure that I am one of many who would like to see the same thing. I ask the question. Are you tired of seeing other ethnicities buy and purchase land within your neighborhoods open up stores that you patronize only, to be looked down upon and despised? Without getting emotional, I ask the question, why do you believe that some other ethnicities look down on us and charge us higher prices to purchase something small like soap or toothpaste, to something large like the maintenance of our cars, apartments and homes?
I believe that the late great Marcus Garvey said it best and I quote “these different ethnicities don't hate us but they hate our condition". If this be so than what is our condition? Or better yet what is our condition that these different ethnicities see when looking at and judging us? Could it be the way that we, not all of us, but some of us treat our own neighborhoods, our women? Or could it be the way that we seemingly find ways not to come together? I have a vision that will and can change all of this. I propose that we black folks create our own "Economic Holiday “ that is strictly centered on buying and purchasing land within our own communities. I propose that we call this day "Black Folks Collective Economic Month (B.F.C.E.M).” And this would take place in March right after Black History Month when people start receiving their income tax checks. News flash those abandoned houses are the treasures of our neighborhoods. But we have to see it like that. Because if we don't other ethnicities will! Let's say 10 People in the neighborhood put in $500.00 well that's $5,000.00 right there. I'm quite sure if people would invest their money together and focus on investing within their community would be more productive and serve a greater purpose in both the short and long term. It cannot be stressed enough the importance of collectively investing into our own communities, helps ourselves and one another.
The power that we collectively manifest is a great force given to us by Yahweh (Yah) when we decide to use it for good. I ask that you just imagine Mrs. Crosby, or Mr. Old Man Jones as well as the younger generation of mothers and fathers collectively investing their money together with the sole purpose of buying one property at a time i.e.) homes in foreclosure, or blighted properties. Then collectively repair them to either rent or sell to individuals and families within their own communities, or to someone who wants to start a small business, such as a mom and pop store within the neighborhood. Thereby empowering themselves.
I challenge anyone out there who could make this idea a reality to do so. We as a people have to empower, visualize, and seek our own opportunities. I'm just saying this may be a dream but this is one that needs to come true.