Exploring the insatiable power of Black history in shaping vibrant communities in St. Louis County.
Every February, we honor Black History Month with speeches, proclamations, and celebrations. We reflect on the struggles of our ancestors and the progress we’ve made. But here in St. Louis County, if we’re going to have an honest conversation about Black history, we need to talk about more than just the past—we need to talk about power.
Too often, Black leadership in this county is expected to be symbolic, not substantive. We are welcomed as long as we go along with the agenda of those in power, but the moment we challenge decisions that don’t serve our communities, we become a problem. County Executive Sam Page has mastered this game—keeping Black leaders close when they follow his lead and sidelining those who dare to think and act independently.
And let’s be honest—this system is upheld not just by Page, but also by some Black leaders who willingly play along. There are those who prioritize staying in his good graces over fighting for the people who elected them, who accept positions with no real influence rather than demanding a seat at the table where decisions are made. They allow themselves to be used as proof of diversity while doing little to challenge the policies that keep our communities struggling. This isn’t leadership, it’s compliance. And it only reinforces the very structures of power that have long kept us at the margins.
Black St. Louisans, especially Black Democrats, are the backbone of this county’s electoral success. Our votes deliver victories, our communities fuel the economy, and our voices shape the culture. Yet, when it comes to governance, appointments, and major policy decisions, too many in power are content with our presence but not our leadership. That is not allyship—that is control.
If we truly want to honor Black history, we need more than just words, we need action. We need leaders who are unafraid to speak truth to power, even when it’s inconvenient. We need a political landscape where Black officials are valued for their leadership, not just their loyalty. And we need a county government that respects Black voices not just during election season, but every single day.
This Black History Month, I urge us all elected officials, community members, and voters to reflect on whether we are pushing for meaningful progress or merely preserving the status quo. Black leadership should not be conditional, nor should our voices only be valued when they align with the agendas of those in power. True inclusion means empowering Black leaders to make real decisions, not just serve as placeholders. If we continue accepting a system where influence is only granted in exchange for obedience, then we haven’t moved forward at all—we’ve just found a new way to stand still.
Councilwoman Shalonda Webb
St. Louis County, District 4
#BlackHistoryPower #StLouisCommunity #CulturalHeritage
