This article explores the importance of the Black mind in the current era of the Intellectual Age, where intellectual assets are highly valued. It discusses the historical and present-day contributions of the Black mind and the need to recognize and honor its power and creativity.
As we move deeper into the 21st century, we must remember our greatest asset, both individually and as a people, will not be in physical things, but rather the power of our minds and creativity. This era, which I refer to as the ‘Intellectual Age,’ places unprecedented value on intellectual assets, making them the cornerstone of our economy.
In the 20th century, oil was the currency of the modern economy. Today, as we embrace the digital age, Intellectual Property (explain what is IP) has become the new oil of the 21st century. (what is Intellectual Property). In this shift, the mind, particularly the imagination, and innovations that flow from it, will continue to be the true source that will drive both our economy and society.
Throughout history, the Black mind has been a source of ingenuity and innovation, even under the most oppressive conditions. Take, for instance, the story of Ned, the first known enslaved African to apply for a patent. Ned invented a cotton scraper but, because he was enslaved, he had to apply through his owner. Unfortunately, the court denied his patent application, finding that slaves had no legal right to intellectual property. This ruling was a stark reflection of a society built on white supremacy, where Black people were denied the most basic human rights, yet their intellectual contributions were still taken advantage of.
Interestingly, the Confederacy, while founded on the notion of black inferiority and the perpetuation of slavery, recognized the value of the intellectual contributions of enslaved Africans. In their constitution, they included provisions that allowed enslaved individuals to receive patents on behalf of their owners. This paradox highlights a reluctant respect for the Black mind, even in a society structured to deny Black people’s humanity.
Today, as we navigate the Intellectual Age, it is essential to remember and honor the legacy of minds like Ned’s. Their resilience and creativity under unimaginable circumstances laid the groundwork for our current and future achievements and innovations. The Black mind has been and continues to be, a wellspring of genius and creativity, driving not just our community but the global economy forward. Let us draw inspiration from our history, recognize our innate intellectual power, and continue to break barriers in this new age of digital and intellectual advancement.
And always remember… Be Inspired.