I’ve got a little bit of time on my hands, so I wanted to share some thoughts about self-promotion in our social progression movements. Trust me, I get it: we’re living in a digital age, and everyone wants to have their ‘moment’. But there’s a bigger picture here. Let’s break it down.
First, a quick history lesson. Remember Marcus Garvey and his Universal Negro Improvement Association? Garvey had a bold vision for Black liberation, no doubt. But his penchant for flashy parades, extravagant uniforms, and his title as the “Provisional President of Africa” sometimes overshadowed the message. Sadly, detractors used this against him, undermining the entire movement.
Fast forward to the 1960s, the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) had its struggles. They were young, passionate, and effective. But when Stokely Carmichael took over as chairman, he began using the platform for self-promotion. While he had the attention of the masses, his approach polarized many allies. The media spotlight became a curse, as the focus shifted from community empowerment to individual actions.
Now, I’m not saying ambition is bad. It’s just that there’s a thin line between advocating for a cause and advocating for oneself.
So, how do we thwart the allure of self-promotion?
- Keep the Main Thing, the Main Thing: Focus on the collective goal. It’s about the movement, not personal fame or recognition. Be the voice, not the face.
- Surround Yourself with Accountability: Have a team that isn’t afraid to check you. Good friends will remind you when you’re drifting.
- Reflect Regularly: Take a step back and ask yourself: “Is this about me or the cause?” Authentic introspection is gold.
- Connect with the Elders: Tap into the wisdom of those who’ve been in the trenches. They’ve seen it all and can provide valuable guidance.
Now, let’s talk about the movements that got it right. The Montgomery Bus Boycott of the ’50s, led by names like Rosa Parks and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., was a marvel of community cohesion over individualism. King could’ve easily used his charismatic oratory for self-gain, but he remained grounded, pushing the movement’s objectives over personal accolades.
Another? The Black Panther Party. While they faced challenges, their community-first ethos with programs like the Free Breakfast for School Children Program ensured that the focus was always on the community’s needs, not on individual glory.
I believe in the power of the individual to spark change, but let’s ensure our light doesn’t blind others in the process. Let’s lift as we climb, keeping the mission at the forefront. Our ancestors fought hard. We owe it to them to fight smart.
Peace and progress,
Dr. Leo “Stix” Croft