As a black diasporan, I have always been fascinated by the history and economics of our community. It is often said that we are the descendants of slaves and that this has had an impact on our financial well-being. However, there is so much more to explore in terms of how we have navigated economic systems that were not designed with us in mind. In this article, I will be reviewing some books that delve into these topics from various perspectives. Join me as we explore the complex world of Black Economics and Business together.
From Here to Equality: Reparations for Black Americans in the Twenty-First Century
by William A. Darity Jr. and A. Kirsten Mullen
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in social justice, equity, and reparations for Black Americans. The authors meticulously lay out a case for why reparations are not only necessary but long overdue.Their argument is rooted in history: from slavery to Jim Crow laws to redlining and discriminatory policies that persist today, Black Americans have been systematically disadvantaged by their government and society at large. The authors make it clear that these injustices cannot be remedied by piecemeal policies or incremental progress – what’s needed is comprehensive reparations.But this isn’t just a theoretical book – the authors also provide practical solutions for how reparations could work in practice, including specific policy recommendations like baby bonds and land grants.Overall, “From Here to Equality” is an eye-opening read that challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about our country’s past while envisioning a more equitable future.
Black Wall Street: From Riot to Renaissance in Tulsa’s Historic Greenwood District
by Hannibal B. Johnson
“Black Wall Street” tells the story of one of the most horrific acts of racial violence in American history – the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre – while also highlighting the resilience and ingenuity of the black community that lived there.The author does an excellent job bringing this forgotten chapter of American history to life through personal stories from survivors as well as historical context on what led up to this tragedy. He uses vivid descriptions of Greenwood district before its destruction by white attackers so readers can imagine how vibrant it once was.Despite its heartbreaking subject matter, “Black Wall Street” ultimately leaves readers with hope for a better future – one where communities like Greenwood can thrive without fear of violence or oppression.
The Mis-Education of the Negro
by Carter G. Woodson
In “The Mis-Education of the Negro,” Carter G.Woodson argues that America’s educational system has failed Black students by teaching them distorted historiesand robbing them off pridein their culture.Instead,it reinforces White supremacy ideas whichmakes education irrelevantto African-Americans.He suggests insteadthat schools should prioritize teaching children about their cultural heritage so they can develop positive self-esteem,and use education as meansof uplifting themselves economicallyand politicallyWhile some may argue his arguments are dated due writing over 80 years ago,the themes resonate even today.The book offers insight into ongoing issues within America’s educational systemsystemsthat perpetuate inequality.African-American youth still feel disconnected at schoolas teachers often failto integrate Afrocentric perspectives.While change may come slow,Woodsongives us permissionto quesitonthe biases foundin modern classrooms.Thisbookremindsuswhyafrocentric pedagogyis importantfor alllearnersregardless on backgroundor race.Itis asharp criticismof our currenteducationalsystemsbutalsoaninspiringcalltobuild aneweducationalparadigmonebasedonanti-racismandtruthfulhistorytakingintoaccountallofAmerica’speopleandtheirstories.Its apropheticworkthatisdefinitelyworthreading,sreflectingon,anddiscussingwith otherstoavoidrepeatingpastmistakeswhileworkingtowardsa brighterfuturewheretheMisEducationoftheNegronolongerexists!
