sat'day riddymz

African American Arrogance

"Black Americans have long been oppressed, so it was startling to me that they would ever be the source of dismissive attitudes toward another black community. However, what I had completely forgotten is that black Americans are still Americans, a nation firm in its resolve that no person or thing on this planet -- or in the heavens -- matters as much as they do. Undoubtedly, it is that fundamental belief that has led them to be the global force that they are, regardless of how skewed that belief structure may be."

I read this article on theRoot by Alyson Renaldo titled "Black Canadian Like Me". In it she discussed the  influence and importance of her West Indian heritage as she grew up in Canada. I relate to this so well for this is also my story. It reflects my experience and existence here in Canada.

What was also right on point was her experiences in the USA with Black American attitudes. Growing up in Toronto, I made a number of visits to Buffalo, New York and Springfield Mass., to hang out with friends and family. When I lived in Windsor, right across the river from Detroit, I spent a lot more time in the USA. Not only in Detroit, but I visited places in Maryland, Arizona, California, Florida and Nevada. For the most part, I have had positive experiences and made some close African-American friendships.

Interestingly, in the interactions with my Black American brothers and sisters, both real life and online experiences, it is evident that I have a different perspective and attitude towards life. What I have come to clearly realize (and accept) is the fact that, as the authour states above, "Black Americans are still Americans". It was quite revealing reading the comments section of this article. I understand that no-one likes to be criticized (especially Americans), and the reactions to the article by the Black American readers were so... "American". Some people dismissed the authour and the article, claiming that she was jealous of the accomplishments of Black Americans. Some claimed she was just ignorant of America and the article was of no value. Some even implied that Black Canadians and/or those of West Indian heritage didn't comprehend slavery!

I am cognizant of the fact that I am neither American nor "African-American", so my thinking, attitudes and perspectives are not restricted or shaped by their prejudices or world view. We are all products of our environment and African-American attitudes are rooted in American attitudes, which are rooted in a foundation of White/European superiority... hence the truth of the above statement. Needless to say, I have my own prejudices and perspectives shaped by my own experiences, being born in England, growing up in Jamaica, living in Canada and travelling within the Americas, Caribbean and Africa.

One of the primary factors I believe which differentiates those of us from the West Indies (and Africa) from Black Americans, is that being in the majority in our countries, we were able to fight and win political independence from our slave/colonial masters and formed our own governments. From that foundation we have travelled the world as independent minded, culturally and socially conscious people. Jamaicans such as Marcus Garvey to Bob Marley for example, embodied this spirit of independence, as well as cultural and social consciousness. I find in this way we are more similar in attitudes to Africans than African-Americans.

At the end of the day it doesn't make us better or worse, just different... and through our differences, we have much to offer each other... if we care enough to invest in the effort to listen and learn about each others' cultures and perspectives.

easter riddymz

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God." 1 Corinthians 1:18

sat'day riddymz

A Rythmic State of Mind

Do not seek to measure me or evaluate me.

I am beyond your understanding.

Sunday Chat with Dad

"Blessed is the one who does not walk in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stand in the way that sinners take, nor sit in the company of the scornful, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord and who meditates in his law day and night." 

Hi Dad, I am beginning to really understand why I have to be careful who I take advice from, who I hang with, who I call "friend" and who I invite into my home. My earthly grandfather used to counsel me this saying: "you are known by the friends that you keep". I am learning that your word must be the basis, the foundation... of any advice that I take, where I dare to go, the friendships I make and who I decide to spend my time with. Not only will it lead to positivity within my life, but more importantly, I will be blessed.

Sometime ago I decided that I would make it a priority to support black businesses and professionals. I know of those who make the same commitment when it comes to choosing businesses and professional advisors who are Christians. My mother's doctor is a born-again Christian and after he diagnoses what's ailing her and gives her a prescription, they will pray together that you will heal her.

First and foremost, we need to look to you for guidance. Through you, we can receive counsel, support and friendship in the body of Christ. Through you, we can discern those who are a positive influence on our life,  those who we need to avoid, as well as those we need to resist. 

Like all things with you Dad, it comes down to commitment and faith... based on your love.

sat'dat riddymz

Cote d'Ivoire Update - As The Crisis Deepens

The French and UN are laying the foundation to create another "Haiti-like" political and social situation for their advantage in Cote d'Ivoire. They will install their oligarchy, flood the country with NGO's, have a permanent UN "peacekeeping" force (in reality AFRICOM forces), oppress the people while they plunder their resources. Nothing changes but the faces!

More on the crisis:

1. Cote d'Ivoire: Descent into hell
2. Humanitarian Invasion in Ivory Coast
3. Manufacturing Cote d'Ivoire's "good guy" 





sat'day riddymz