In economics, competition underlies free market principles that are rooted in a capitalistic society. For some this competition has created income disparities and resulted in a concentration of wealth and resources for a few. In a sports sense competition brings about the talent that may sit dormant if otherwise not challenged by an external and competitive force. Consistent with the spirit of a palatable free market philosophy and necessity to embrace it, is the idea of free market politics.
African-Americans, the most loyal voting bloc and base of the Democratic party and a numerical cog in the wheels of labor have historically seen this support underappreciated, undervalued and not reciprocated . Why? The social, political and economic establishments that have benefited from African-Americans have not been forced to compete for the support that we have so freely given without parties and organization without question. Hence, the intelligent engagement and Free Market politics.
This is where political interests are forced to compete for our votes and our specific interests are brought to the fore in a meaningful and concrete platform. Who’s to fault for the benign neglect of African-American community’s political interests? As in relationships, we teach people how to treat us by what we allow. The reality is we, the people bear the blame. More specifically, the organizational leadership that represents African-Americans, clergy and elected officials who usher people and interests before the masses without having to not only justify the reasons we should support instead of drawing upon an agenda to extract community concessions.
To assume and define this as “selling out” would be rather harsh, but a spot on reality, where the community’s interest are sold short to the individual interests of a few. As issues and important political races are upon us, the people must rise and challenge, make those seeking our support and vote to articulate why they are best suited, and hold accountable the organizations and Black elected officials, and clergy who bring those into our community seeking office.
Our choices can no longer come down to “the lesser of two evils”, or dogmatic embrace of a partisanship. The people must decipher and unhinge the fork tongue political speak of those whose positions vary and change with the winds of polling or powerful lobbyist interest. Nor can our political choices be dictated by color, as we have come to learn to commonly the adage…”All Skin Folk Aint Kin folk”. It’s important that we force the Democratic party to speak specifically of issues of concern and place upon it a specific and unique platform indigenous to our specific interests, also the Black community can’t be afraid to engage dialogue with Republicans. Of course that’s the Issuecrat in me that embraces issues over dogmatic party loyalties, race or gender. When people compete for our vote, we win.
This upcoming year and subsequent elections let’s challenge any and all, no free passes, and let’s not plantation hop from one party to another. In the words of Congressman Bill Clay….”No permanent friends just permanent interests!”
