Anne McCandless <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
In the meantime, who does speak for the African American community? It
can't be everyone or else we will never come to any accord. On the other
hand, it doesn't have to be just one person or group if (big IF) the people
and groups are willing to work together and compromise.IMHO, why is that question even asked? Why do we have to have a designee? Was it a condition of the Emancipation Proclamation? If we have to have one, so should White people. What one accord have the White people come under except the virtue of their being white? No one took me seriously months ago when I stated that there should be a Summit on White People and their Issues. I was not being racist, I was dead serious. We always seem to have them about African-Americans and other communities of color, so turnabout is fair play.
To me, every person of color who speaks their humble opinion is speaking for themselves. If it did not resonate with them they would not be talking about it. Some may have folks who agree with them, and the voice becomes louder. Sometimes they stand alone. Either way they are taking a stand. There are plenty of White people who, all by themselves, seem to command attention. Us, we have to have a coalition. Says who?
And, please don't tell me that just because Rybek got elected he has the authority to speak for white people. All he did was get lucky and won an election. And, as I recall, people other than White folks voted for him. And, there are plenty of people - white and otherwise - who are not thrilled with the words coming out of his mouth now. And, technically speaking, he is out of the running anyway as White designee because he was not voted upon by only the White community.
Bottom line is this: Listen to what is being said, no matter what the color of the speaker, and determine its relevance in regard to the issue at hand. Then act accordingly.
I am pretty independent in words and action, that is to say, I am not one to simply follow the crowd because that is the way they are traveling. My parents taught me that being a critical thinker was one of the best assets I could ever have. I may never be rich, but my integrity - priceless.
Pamela Taylor (Tampa)
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