Exploring Real Black on Black Crime
The current state of many organizations is certainly disheartening, considering the lack of relevance they would have if they were exposed for the lies they tell every day. It's quite common to come across articles and news reports exposing the financial mismanagement of certain charities, which only adds to the skepticism surrounding the civil rights movement. These types of investigations could potentially create a completely different narrative if the walls could talk. It's unfortunate that there are many organizations that receive funding that should go to individuals who are disproportionately affected by societal issues. This is particularly frustrating when one considers that just because someone's skin color is black, they automatically receive access to the same funds. It's important to note that social justice organizations play a critical role in our society, but it's equally important to acknowledge that some of them can be a poison to our purpose and progress.
These types of investigations could potentially create a completely different narrative if the walls could talk
As someone who has had a seat at the table of many of these social justice organizations, I can attest to the fact that there are several issues that need to be addressed. For instance, there is often a lack of transparency regarding how funds are allocated, which can lead to suspicion and mistrust among the very people these organizations are meant to serve. Additionally, some organizations tend to prioritize their own interests over those of the communities they claim to represent. All in all, it's crucial that we hold these organizations accountable for their actions and ensure that they are making a positive impact on society. Only then can we truly achieve social justice and equality for all.
I recently attended a public meeting that was centered on health equity in the black community. However, I later found out that I wasn't actually invited to the meeting. The meeting was a partnership between a university and a local city government to increase health equity and combat racism, among other things. As the university and board discussed all the amazing things they did for the community, I began to question where the data was showing the health equity outcomes. The initiative had raised 2.2 million dollars and had hosted two health summits, four workshops, and a community walking program. However, there was no data on successes or health equity outcomes. As I looked around at the attendees, I noticed that many were driving luxurious cars with fraternity and sorority license plates, which made me wonder whether the initiative had truly helped those who are disproportionately affected.
which made me wonder whether the initiative had truly helped those who are disproportionately affected.
The topic explores the disproportionate impact faced by Black communities across various domains, shedding light on disparities in areas such as healthcare, criminal justice, and socioeconomic factors. Systemic racism and historical injustices are identified as contributing factors to these disparities, leading to unequal opportunities and outcomes for Black individuals. Key references include seminal works like "The Souls of Black Folk" by W.E.B. Du Bois, "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander, and contemporary studies and reports from organizations like the NAACP and the American Public Health Association.
Addressing disparities often involves implementing programs and policies aimed at supporting marginalized or disadvantaged groups. However, sometimes there are individuals or groups who may not be genuinely disproportionate but still benefit from these initiatives. The distinction lies in the concept of "disproportionate impact" versus "opportunistic advantage."
Disproportionate Impact:
Definition: Disproportionate impact refers to the unequal and adverse effects experienced by a particular group, often due to historical injustices, systemic discrimination, or socioeconomic factors.
Example: In the context of racial disparities, Black communities may face higher rates of poverty, limited access to quality education, and systemic barriers in healthcare, resulting in a disproportionate impact on their overall well-being.
Opportunistic Advantage:
Definition: Opportunistic advantage occurs when individuals or groups, who may not genuinely face the same historical or systemic disadvantages exploit programs designed to address disparities to gain unwarranted benefits.
Example: Some individuals or communities might take advantage of affirmative action programs intended for historically marginalized groups, even if they do not face the same level of systemic obstacles. This can lead to questions about the fairness of resource allocation and program effectiveness.
It's essential to carefully design and monitor programs to ensure that they target the intended beneficiaries while preventing opportunistic advantage. Striking a balance between addressing historical injustices and avoiding unintended consequences is crucial for creating equitable and effective policies. Policymakers and advocates must continuously assess and refine these programs to ensure they align with their original objectives and contribute to genuine societal progress.
References:
Du Bois, W. E. B. (1903). "The Souls of Black Folk." Chicago: A. C. McClurg & Co.
Alexander, M. (2010). "The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness." The New Press.
National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). (https://www.naacp.org/)
American Public Health Association (APHA). (https://www.apha.org/)