Here is some interesting information for those concerned about oppression and racism:

“In 2002, 57.1% of black mayors served in cities that did not have a black majority population.” Source: blackdemographics.com/culture/black-politics/black-mayors/

Correct me if I am wrong, but that means more white people, or non-blacks, voted FOR a black leader in their city. We are not as racist a Country as the media portray. Nor are we as oppressed. Is there poverty? Yes. Oppression? Not by proper definition:

“To burden with cruel or unjust impositions or restraints; subject to a burdensome or harsh exercise of authority or power.” Source: www.dictionary.com/browse/oppress

With information like this, I must ask: how is it that opportunity does not exist? It’s true that in some cases we have to MAKE our own opportunities and it is NOT easy or else EVERYONE would do it. Success does not come easy. To be successful, one must work, be determined, and persevere. One also should have a positive attitude, and have a positive outlook on life in general. Always talking about how bad oppression is will bring oppression to you. Always talking about how bad poverty is will bring poverty to you. It exists because you choose to experience it. By tuning yourself to that frequency of life, you will experience it.

Are their problems in our Country that should be addressed? Yes. Should we sugar coat them? No. We should be more focused on solutions than the problems themselves. Sitting on your ass in protest is not a solution, it’s part of the problem. It would be better to create a Foundation that puts shoes on kids feet! That would do more for the issues at hand than sitting on a bench pouting about “oppression and racism”.

Want to be part of the solution? Smile at people that don’t look like you. Say hi to them. Be FRIENDLY. Don’t frown or cop an attitude thinking “they are all alike”. It goes both ways. Make sure to obey people in authority such as the police. Even when they are in the wrong. You can address it later. Teach your children to do these things.

On the flip side, if you have the opportunity to create jobs, try looking at areas that need them. I think that is part of the solution.. putting jobs in poverty-stricken neighborhoods. The people have to want them and have to conform to certain work ethics, of course. That can be a different cause but part of the root issue.

Obviously there is more to this topic, but this is a conversation starter. Join in.