With black Conservatism on the rise in this country, I think there are some key points for us to keep in mind as we begin to find our place in the political landscape. Today I will only briefly discuss one of those points. Over time I will cover others as they come to mind.
One of the goals of black Conservatives should NOT be to convert fellow black Americans who traditionally vote Democratic to vote Republican. By doing this, we would be in effect re-creating the same problem that we saw in the Democratic part–taking the black vote for granted. Republicans have been going the extra mile these days to enlist more blacks into their party, but so did Democrats back during the civil rights era. The end result of our relationship with the Democratic party has been more broken-down schools, impoverished neighborhoods and empty promises.
We must understand the importance of becoming a savvy voter
A white politician who pumps his/her fist in a black power salute or makes the claim that that their favorite pastime is eating fried chicken and watermelon while listening to the blues should no more serve as the tipping point for potential black voters than a black pastor who equates Conservative “values” with the Bible itself , or makes the subtle claim that Jesus is a Conservative.
I think the notion of creating a political party that targets the needs of black Americans-only is a little short sighted considering the fact that we are in a country that is made up of different races. However, moving our votes to the most suitable bidder I think is the best and most effective approach.
The two-party system is failing this country. Black Americans can no longer be the last man on a sinking ship stuck rowing below. Black Conservatives and Liberals who have broken away from the traditional group-think voting pattern for the Democratic party should spend less time hurling insults at each other (that usually get racial and demeaning in nature) and begin to encourage fellow blacks to look at the entire political spectrum (the good and the bad) and not just through the eyes of the current two-party system.
In the end, if a black person still desires to vote a partial or straight Democratic ticket, he or she should feel free to do so. It should be our part (those outside the Party) to see to it that our people are making an informed decision and not one out of mere tradition.
Duane,
I see your point. Although I think the Dems are spineless and will not vote for them unless Obama is running for president, I don’t like the Repubs either. I think I’m going to be one of the few who some may say that my vote is being wasted, I will vote independent from now on. Hey, why don’t you join me (smile)? Anyway, I agree that something else must be done.
Totally and completely agree. I have been an indpendent since 1980.
Typically I vote anti-incumbent unless the incumbent is someone who I know is doing a good job. I lived in Tip O’Neill’s district for a while who had no opposition on the ballot. I and several hundred other voters wrote-in a name, Mickey Mouse.
Some may call it a wasted vote; I call it voting my conscience.
Republicans having the “courage” to go to Black communities and state what they believe in and why, helps.
But the fact that it’s “courage”, says something about THEM not the Black community.
Straight up: Black conservatives are playing “victimology” when it comes to the larger Black community.
Duane,
Appreciate the balance, brotha.
JW