(ThyBlackMan.com) Today, Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., a school founded by Jesuits, apologized for its participation in American slavery. They should have known better. But, as we all know, early American Christians of European descent had no conscience when it came to the misery and suffering of Black Africans. These miserable souls lost their history, were cut off from their cultural past, and even separated from birth parents because White Americans viewed them as work animals, and not entirely human.
Georgetown decided to change. Voice of America reports that the university also plans to issue a formal apology, create an institute devoted to the study of slavery, and build a memorial to the slaves who labored for the university, including those who were sold. Also, two buildings on campus will be renamed for an enslaved man and a Catholic African-American educator.
The Jesuits now say this: “In the vision of our founder [Ignatius Loyola], we seek to find God in all things… We dedicate ourselves 
to the greater glory of God and the good of all humanity.” Great. This Roman Catholic order of priests and brothers clearly didn’t follow this creed several hundred years ago. Why now? One reason might be is that the American landscape has become “racialized,” that is, the country is moving away from a Caucasian majority in population numbers while numbers of minorities and recent immigrants have begun to increase which, in turn, causes anxiety – and soul searching. Yes, hypocrisy can motivate.
That’s not it, you say? Well, if African-descended people, Asians, and Latinos ever settle their differences and find common ground, they might eventually control the political landscape. One person, one vote would take on a whole new meaning – at least in the minds of those in a majority position right now. But the Georgetown crowd is smart. They read handwriting and so do others like Mr. Donald Trump, who says he’ll redefine immigration. He’s really only talking about non-Caucasoid individuals from countries whose lives aren’t the best, not Westerners or Europeans.
So what does all of this have to do with African Americans knowing who they are? The genius of Euro Americans lies in their keen sense for “future building.” While other ethnic groups look at the present or spend time reflecting mainly on the past for principles and guidance, intelligent Caucasians look forward. They know their past and they recognize the flaws of the here and now. But they don’t live according to either. Historically, people of slave ancestry have used slavery to justify their actions in response to the deeds of dead White American Christians. That’s not a good thing.
Black folks living in America aren’t physically enslaved as were their ancestors. Economically oppressed, yes, but unable to seek a better position, no. They are simply a new people with new challenges. European Americans know this and they’re planning a future right now that makes sure people who only want to perpetually celebrate a dark past remain stuck in it. With the recent announcement, Georgetown University seems to be playing its part in the ongoing scheme.
Staff Writer; Mu Octavis Taalib
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