Black Power Movement

This is where I think many Blacks are stuck today. It seems to exceed economic and education levels. Gender doesn't even seem to play a significant role. I've heard some Black females spew the hate with the best of them. It is accepted as the rights of passage for Blacks, to claim unfair treatment by Whites. That may very well be true, but it hasn't and isn't going to change. The "Black Power Movement" was made up of people who were unfulfilled with the accomplishments of the "Civil Rights Movement". The new focus seemed to be one of reparations and economic redistribution. Instead of human rights and basic equality like before. This new philosophy was a perfect fit for young impressionable Blacks. Many of whom, were born in the inner cities. Didn't really know anything about segregation at it's worse. All they know is what someone had told them. Like many of those with a militant outlook today.

If there's a void, it's going to be filled. That's the proven theory of supply and demand. After the murder of Martin Luther King Jr., it left an obvious loss of recognized leadership in the Black community. True to form Blacks sought the direction of a designated leader. This void created groups like the "Black Panthers" a militant group, and the N.O.I. a Muslim religious sect. MalcolmX pushed his message right along side that one of Martin Luther King. Giving Blacks a choice of political ideaologies. The starting point of political division within the race. The "Nation" didn't have the widespread appeal among fundamental Christians, those who were raised in the church. Though exciting it was just too radical. The truth of the matter is. Most law abiding Blacks still weren't ready to go to jail. Let alone lose their life like MalcomX. Leaving the door open for what was supposed to be a less aggressive more progressive movement. Hence we have the "Black Power Movement". Also one that didn't call Big Momma "brainwashed by the White devil".

In my opinion a lot of these guys are nothing more than opportunist. Taking advantage of a preprimed audience, ready to absorb their rhetoric like a sponge. People like Stokely Carmicheal and others really came after the fact. The way had already been cleared by Martin and Malcom. I think what we have now is a combination of the old and new activist. I find it interesting that people only refer to the Martin Luther King Jr. and his speeches when seeking support. During the time they were made, these same people didn't find them popular. They don't care for how you think but they still want your money. Some things are better left unchanged. Hindsight is 20/20.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Power