The problem of the twentieth Century is the problem of the color-line—the relation of the darker to the lighter races of men in Asia and Africa, in America and the islands of the sea…Three centuries’ though has been the raising and unveiling of that bowed human heart, and now behold a century new for the duty and the deed.

            - W.E.B.. Dubois, “The Souls of Black Folk (1903)

Dubois hauntingly and prophetically pointed out that, if America did not confront the Black race problem in the 20th century, that it would be the biggest problem facing America in the 21st century. Today, this is one of the most provocative subjects ever whispered from the lips of mainstream America. However, to discuss it aloud, is not without consequences, especially if you’re Black.

The Black issue is back. It’s being whispered from, ‘every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city.’ It is whispered, because to do otherwise might expose the depth and dimensions of ones thoughts and beliefs on this controversial issue. It is too pungent to the taste, so it is watered down and reduced to the state of mythology – And so now we are told that Africans are the real culprits behind that peculiar institution called slavery. 

To speak aloud about the Black issue does not come without repercussions. If you dare discuss it at work, you’re labeled as one who has an “attitude,” or worse (if you can believe this), a racist. And, if your livelihood requires your being in the publics eye, you are in even more perilous waters – Just ask Arsenio Hall, and our latest fallen soldier, Tavis Smiley. I have a nagging suspicion that Rev. Jackson was shot in his Achilles’ heel only after he announced a little business trip down to Florida.

Indeed, these are perilous times for those who know the truth and speak aloud about it. Their reward is not measured monetarily, but is of intangible, inexplicable wealth. However, if you are part of the growing number of Black folks who believe the financial rewards for whispering the Black issue far outweighs the benefits of speaking aloud, then there are some land mines you need to be to aware of. One should take particular care to stand clear of these, as they can be of the “Bouncing Betty” type. The following is quite stringent. However, if adhered to, it will almost guarantee your success and keep that cash flow coming:

1. Do not associate with any controversial figures, affiliates or organizations that espouse “Black Power,” i.e., Black Panthers, Nation of Islam. Remember Arsenio Hall and Tavis Smiley.

2. Refer to yourself as an, “American” not “African-American.” Remember, the goal is for white America to see the, ‘content of your character,’ and not your color.

3. Speaking of “content of your character,” recite only King’s, “I have a Dream,” speech of 1963 - March on Washington, and completely ignore his, “Beyond Vietnam,” speech of 1967- New York.

4. Addendum to #3. Do not ever bring up any of King’s association with controversial figures, affiliates or organizations. 

5. Do not discuss slavery. Remember that was the past and, “we need to get over it.”

6. Do not discuss reparation. After all,

a. That happened a long time ago, too.

b. We are better off in America then we would be in Africa.

c. None of the people enslaved are alive today.

d. None of the people that are responsible for slavery are alive today

7. Do not associate yourself with anything African, because you have more in common with Europeans and know nothing about Africa.

8. Don’t refer to slavery in America as the Holocaust. Remember, that is allocated solely for the Jews.

9. Never side with Affirmative Action. Remember, if you work hard, you can lift yourself up by your bootstraps (according to Larry Elders and Armstrong Williams).

10. Do not believe in racial profiling. Everyone knows that you must have done something for the police to stop you.

I’m sure I’ll be adding more the list in my next piece.  However,  If there are some additions that you would like to see added, please do not hesitate to forward them to me


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