Harriot isn’t interested in repeating the often inaccurate stories many of us were fed in school. Instead, he digs into the parts of Black history that textbooks either botch or twist into something unrecognizable. But what makes the book stand out is the way he does it. He writes with a rhythm that feels familiar, like he’s talking directly to us, not at us. He’s not talking to the majority in this country…he’s talking to us. The jokes land because they’re rooted in shared experience, and the truths hit even harder because they’re framed in a voice that feels like our family.

“In this book, the country we know as the United States is just a parcel of land that was stolen and repurposed as a settler state using European logic and the laws of white supremacy. This book is a story about a strong-arm robbery. It is about family and friends trying to recover what was stolen. It is the testimony, and the verdict that a jury of our peers has never heard.”

The book moves through major eras of Black life in America—enslavement, Reconstruction, Jim Crow, the Civil Rights Movement—but Harriot refuses to let these moments be reduced to suffering alone. He highlights the brilliance, strategy, and joy that have always been part of our story. He reminds us that Black people weren’t just surviving; we were shaping the country at every turn, often in ways the mainstream narrative conveniently forgets.

What’s wonderful is how Harriot blends humor with scholarship. He’ll crack a joke that makes you laugh out loud, then follow it with a historical fact so wild you must pause and reread it. That balance keeps the book from ever feeling heavy, even when the subject matter is. It’s the kind of storytelling that makes you want to pass the book around to your cousins, your friends, your group chat—because it sparks conversation, and sometimes a little righteous anger, but always with a wink.

“Still, I can’t think of a single incidence where liberty has been achieved through gradual means, nor can I point to a single example of white people saying, “You know what? I think I’m gonna stop oppressing you.” Perhaps the first step toward liberation begins with the dismantling of the idea that freedom is something that white people can give someone. Just sayin’.”

For Black readers, especially, the book feels like a reclamation. Harriot writes with the assumption that we’re in on the joke, that we understand the cultural shorthand, that we don’t need our history softened or translated. There’s something powerful about that. It’s a reminder that our stories don’t need to be filtered through anyone else’s lens to be valid or valuable.

By the time you finish, you feel both entertained and informed, but also affirmed. Harriot gives us permission to laugh at the absurdity of America’s contradictions while still honoring the resilience and brilliance of our people. Black AF History isn’t just a retelling of the past—it’s a reminder of how much agency, creativity, and power Black folks have always had, even when the world tried to pretend otherwise.

It’s a relaxed, engaging read that manages to be both fun and deeply meaningful. If you want history that speaks your language, challenges the usual narratives, and keeps you laughing while you learn, this one delivers. It’s a book every Black person must read.

Black AF History by Michael Harriet can be found at your local bookstore and anywhere books are sold.

Staff Writer; Christian Starr

May connect with this sister over at Facebook; C. Starr and also Twitter; MrzZeta.

Also via email at; CStarr@ThyBlackMan.com.

Bree Matthews, the heart of the story, steps onto the campus of UNC–Chapel Hill carrying a grief that’s still raw from the sudden loss of her mother. Deonn doesn’t rush her through that pain or try to tidy it up. Instead, she lets Bree move through it the way many of us have had to—messily, angrily, quietly, and with a determination that comes from not knowing what else to do. That emotional honesty is one of the book’s strongest themes. Bree feels like a real Black girl navigating a world that expects her to shrink, soften, or stay silent, and she refuses to do any of the above. The book combines fantasy and reality perfectly.

“The most important thing you can do in this world, the most necessary thing, is to survive it. You can’t do anything for anyone else if you don’t take care of yourself first.”

When the magic enters the picture, it doesn’t feel like an escape from reality, it feels like an extension of it. The secret society Bree encounters is steeped in old, inherited whiteness, full of tradition and gatekeeping. Watching her push into that space, question it, and ultimately challenge its foundations hits differently when you understand what it means to walk into institutions that weren’t built with you in mind. Deonn doesn’t shy away from showing the microaggressions, the assumptions, the subtle ways Bree is underestimated. But she also shows Bree’s brilliance, her intuition, and the power she carries from her lineage.

And that lineage—rooted in African American ancestral magic—is where the book truly shines. Deonn treats ancestry not as a distant idea but as something living and present. The Root magic tied to Bree’s family feels like a tribute to Black Southern traditions, to the strength of our elders, to the idea that our people walk with us even when we can’t see them. For Black readers, that connection feels intimate and grounding. It’s a reminder that our history is not a burden but a source of power.

“Growing up Black in the South, it’s pretty common to find yourself in old places that just… weren’t made for you. Maybe it’s a building, a historic district, or a street. Some space that was originally built for white people and white people only, and you just have to hold that knowledge while going about your business.”

Even with all the action, secrets, and supernatural twists, the story never loses sight of Bree’s emotional journey. Her grief is not a side plot—it’s woven into every choice she makes. Her Blackness is not an obstacle—it’s a source of clarity and strength. Her voice is not muted, it’s amplified.

Deonn’s writing is smooth and immersive, making it easy to fall into the world she’s built. Bree is allowed to be complicated, vulnerable, stubborn, brilliant, and brave. She’s allowed to take up space. She’s allowed to be the hero.

For Black readers who love fantasy but rarely see themselves at the center of it, Legendborn is a breath of fresh air. It’s a story about magic, yes, but also about identity, inheritance, and the courage it takes to claim your place in a world that wasn’t designed for you. Deonn doesn’t just give us a heroine—she gives us a mirror, a reminder, and a spark.

Legendborn by Tracy Deonn can be found at your local bookstore and anywhere books are sold.

Staff Writer; Christian Starr

May connect with this sister over at Facebook; C. Starr and also Twitter; MrzZeta.

Also via email at; CStarr@ThyBlackMan.com.

“In 1954 Charles C. Diggs Jr. would become only the fifth Black man elected to Congress since Reconstruction.”

For some Black readers, Diggs may be a name we’ve heard in passing—maybe connected to the Congressional Black Caucus, maybe tied to Detroit’s political history—but Orr brings him forward in full color. His is a name young people need to know when mentioning the contribution of Black people in government.  Diggs emerges as a trailblazer who understood early on that political power wasn’t just about holding office; it was about using that office to uplift the people who put you there. Orr shows how Diggs championed civil rights, fought for African nations gaining independence, and pushed for dignity and fairness at a time when Black voices in Congress were few and often dismissed. There’s a sense of pride in seeing how boldly he moved, how he refused to shrink himself, and how he insisted that Black issues were American issues.

However, Orr is honest with the reader, and does not erase the fall, and that’s where the book becomes even more compelling. Diggs’ legal troubles, the accusations, the conviction—Orr lays it all out without sensationalizing it. He invites readers to sit with the complexity. What does it mean when a leader who has done so much good becomes entangled in scandal? How do Black communities reconcile the brilliance of their heroes with their flaws? Orr doesn’t tell readers what to think; he simply presents the full story and allows the weight of it to settle naturally. Unlike some authors is not trying to sway the reader…he wants the reader to think for themselves.

“This book shows that Diggs strategically practiced a moderate politics that was quieter than the militant race politics practiced by Powell, more appealing than Dawson’s conservative Chicago-style approach, and often more effective than both.”

What makes this book resonate is how familiar the arc feels. Black leaders often walk a tightrope—expected to be exceptional, expected to be perfect, expected to carry entire communities on their backs while navigating systems built to undermine them. Diggs’ rise is inspiring, but his fall is a reminder of how unforgiving the political world can be, especially for Black public figures. Orr captures this tension with care, giving readers space to reflect on the pressures, expectations, and vulnerabilities that come with being “the first” or “the only.”

Orr’s writing is smooth and accessible, making the book feel less like a dense political biography and more like a long conversation about a man whose life mattered. It’s a relaxed read in tone, but not in substance. You walk away with a deeper understanding of Diggs, of Detroit, of Black political power, and of the complicated legacy that leaders leave behind.

For Black readers who appreciate stories that honor our history without flattening it, House of Diggs offers a thoughtful, balanced, and deeply engaging look at a man who shaped a movement, carried a community, and left behind a legacy worth examining with both pride and honesty.

House of Diggs by Marion Orr can be found at your local bookstore and anywhere books are sold.

Staff Writer; Christian Starr

May connect with this sister over at Facebook; C. Starr and also Twitter; MrzZeta.

Also via email at; CStarr@ThyBlackMan.com.

For decades, Black Americans have watched as Republican leaders sidestep issues of racial justice, civil rights, and economic inequality. The party’s reluctance to confront systemic racism—whether in policing, education, or voting rights—has been interpreted as an act of cowardice. Instead of standing up to the forces of bigotry and exclusion, many Republicans have chosen the path of least resistance, prioritizing political expediency over moral clarity.

This cowardice is most evident in moments of national crisis. When unarmed Black men and women are killed by police, Republican officials often respond with silence or deflection. Calls for reform are met with accusations of “playing the race card” or undermining law enforcement. Rather than acknowledging the pain and outrage of Black American communities, the party frequently doubles down on rhetoric that dismisses legitimate grievances. This refusal to engage honestly with the realities of racial injustice is not just disappointing, it is dangerous.

The origins of this cowardice run deep. Historically, the Republican Party was once the party of Lincoln, emancipation, and Reconstruction. But over time, especially since the civil rights era, the party has shifted its base and priorities. The Southern Strategy, employed in the late 20th century, deliberately courted white voters by appealing to racial anxieties. This pivot marked a turning point, signaling that the party would rather win elections than confront the legacy of racism in America. For Black Americans, this was a betrayal—a clear indication that Republican leaders were unwilling to risk their political fortunes for the sake of justice. Looking back, history has taught Black Americans that Lincoln, emancipation, and Reconstruction was never about humanity, justice, citizenship, nor any attempt to properly address the horrors inflicted upon Black Americans. This truth only deepened the since of betrayal amongst Black Americans.

In recent years, the cowardice has taken on new forms. The rise of voter suppression laws, often championed by Republican legislatures, disproportionately affects Black voters. Under the guise of preventing “fraud,” these laws make it harder for Black Americans to exercise their most fundamental right. When challenged, Republican officials rarely defend these policies on their merits; instead, they hide behind vague claims of security and tradition. The unwillingness to stand up for the democratic participation of all citizens is a profound act of cowardice.

Economic policy is another arena where Republican timidity is on display. Black American communities have long suffered from disparities in wealth, employment, and access to opportunity. Yet, when proposals arise to address these inequities—such as raising the minimum wage, expanding healthcare, or investing in education—Republican leaders often balk. They cite concerns about “big government” or “fiscal responsibility,” but rarely offer solutions that would meaningfully improve Black lives. The refusal to confront the realities of economic injustice, and the fear of alienating wealthy donors or corporate interests, reveals a lack of courage to do what is right.

Perhaps most troubling is the party’s response to the rise of white nationalism and hate groups. In the aftermath of events like Charlottesville, Republican leaders have struggled to unequivocally condemn racism and violence. Some have issued tepid statements, while others have remained silent, fearing backlash from their base. For Black Americans, this equivocation is more than cowardice—it is complicity. When leaders refuse to denounce hate, they embolden those who perpetrate it.

It is important to acknowledge that not all Republicans fit this mold. There are individuals within the party who have spoken out against injustice and advocated for reform. However, they are often marginalized, criticized, or forced out by party leadership. The prevailing culture rewards conformity and punishes dissent, making it difficult for courageous voices to gain traction.

From a Black American perspective, the consequences of Republican cowardice are not abstract—they are felt in everyday life. They manifest in underfunded schools, over-policed neighborhoods, restricted voting rights, and limited economic mobility. They are evident in the rhetoric that blames Black communities for their own struggles, rather than addressing the systemic barriers that perpetuate inequality.

The path forward requires more than platitudes or incremental change. It demands that Republican leaders find the courage to confront uncomfortable truths, challenge their own base, and prioritize justice over political gain. This means listening to Black American voices, supporting policies that promote equity, and standing up to those who traffic in hate and division.

Until that courage is found, the perception that “Republicans are cowards” will persist. It is not a label that Black Americans apply lightly, but one that has been earned through years of disappointment and betrayal. The hope is that one day, the party will reclaim its legacy of moral leadership and become a force for justice once again. Until then, the struggle continues, and the demand for courage remains. It was with this open understanding that Blak America warned this country to make a different decision at the polls. As Black America watches the control battle with itself, all that can be said is… “We warned you of this cowardice and betrayal. We told you that your party would betray you.” Black America must decide how it is going to address the current climate of the country, and while resting, they will decide on their own terms as much as possible how to move forward.

Staff Writer; Christian Starr

May connect with this sister over at Facebook; C. Starr and also Twitter; MrzZeta.

Also via email at; CStarr@ThyBlackMan.com.

This violence is not new to the American landscape. It has a “long, dark history” of political violence, from the Civil War to the upheavals of the 1960s and 1970s. Yet, what distinguishes the current era is the normalization of violence as a feature of political life, rather than an aberration. According to University of Chicago political scientist Robert Pape, “Support for political violence has gone mainstream… Political trends do not move in straight lines, and predicting the future can be a fool’s errand. But it is safe to say that the United States has a rough road ahead”.

The roots of this violence are complex, but one central dynamic is the escalating conflict between white conservatives and white liberals. Sociologist Jerel Ezell argues that while racial minorities often bear the brunt of political violence, the power to resolve it lies with white America. Non-white Americans find themselves caught in the crossfire of an increasingly vicious battle between the white right and the white left. On one side are white nationalists and conservative commentators critical of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and immigration; on the other, white liberals who see the right’s rhetoric as a slide toward fascism and racism.

Recent incidents illustrate how quickly violence can incite racial and ideological tensions. The murder of Charlie Kirk, a young conservative celebrity, was followed by threats against Black students and colleges, highlighting the volatility of America’s racial landscape. Kirk’s own record on DEI and race was controversial at best, and his death became a flashpoint for both sides to amplify their grievances.

The politicization of violence has also become a tool for leaders to rally their bases. In the wake of Kirk’s assassination, former President Donald Trump blamed “radical left” rhetoric and signed an executive order designating antifa as a domestic terror organization. Yet such moves often ignore violence targeting Democrats and risk deepening the partisan divide. This imbalance of concern from the Trump Administration could be seen as endorsing violence against the left.

America’s current trajectory is troubling. According to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data (ACLED) Conflict Index, the United States now ranks among the world’s most turbulent nations for political violence, just behind Libya. Unlike the violence of the 1970s, which felt temporary and issue-specific, today’s violence seems persistent and systemic—a feature of American life rather than a passing storm. Americans never know what conflict they will wake to in the morning, and the desensitization of this is concerning.

Experts warn that the nation may be entering a cycle of tit-for-tat violence, where attacks on one side provoke retaliation from the other. The radicalization pipeline, fueled by social media and partisan media outlets, has made it easier for individuals to justify violence against perceived enemies. Political leaders, rather than cooling tensions, often pour “poison into the public well” by minting martyrs and painting half the country as murderers.

Public opinion reflects the gravity of the situation. A Pew Research Center survey conducted in September 2025 found that 85% of Americans believe politically motivated violence is increasing. This sentiment is shared almost equally by Republicans and Democrats. However, there is less consensus about the causes. While 77% of Republicans see left-wing extremism as a major problem, only 27% say the same about right-wing extremism. Democrats, meanwhile, are more likely to see right-wing extremism as a major threat. Nearly half of Americans also worry about extremism from those without clear political views.

The question remains: Will America become more violent? The answer depends on whether political and cultural leaders can resist the temptation to exploit violence for partisan gain and instead work to restore norms of peaceful disagreement. The challenge is formidable. As the nation’s demographic and ideological landscape shifts, the risk is that violence will become a permanent fixture, undermining democracy and social cohesion.

Ultimately, the solution lies in confronting the underlying causes of polarization—economic inequality, racial resentment, and the erosion of trust in institutions. White conservatives and white liberals, who wield disproportionate influence over the nation’s direction, must recognize their shared responsibility to de-escalate tensions. Without such efforts, America risks sliding further into a cycle of violence that could define its future for generations to come. Most do not want to see America repeat history in terms of entering a second Civil War. However, some can argue wars can be fought in many different ways in 2026, and we may have already entered the beginning stages. The question is, can America save herself?

Staff Writer; Christian Starr

May connect with this sister over at Facebook; C. Starr and also Twitter; MrzZeta.

Also via email at; CStarr@ThyBlackMan.com.

In December 2025, President Trump issued a sweeping proclamation expanding travel restrictions to 39 countries and individuals traveling on Palestinian Authority-issued documents, effective January 1, 2026. This move doubled the number of countries under full or partial bans compared to earlier in the administration. The stated goal: protect U.S. citizens from terrorist threats, visa overstays, and unreliable documentation.

The new rules differentiate between “full suspension” countries—where entry of immigrants and nonimmigrants is barred—and “partial suspension” countries, which face limited entry rules. Notably, exceptions for immediate relatives, Afghan Special Immigrant Visas, and international adoptions were removed, making the bans more restrictive than ever.

The Trump Administration’s expanded travel bans have led to reciprocal actions from several countries. Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, for example, now bar U.S. citizens from entry or renewal of residency permits, forcing Americans living there to return home. This tit-for-tat approach has created a dual crisis: Americans must navigate both where they cannot safely travel and where they are no longer welcome. This is particularly upsetting for Black Americans that would want to visit African countries that are on the travel ban list. Due to the actions of the Trump Administration Black Americans are being barred from Black spaces simply because they are American. Though it’s understandable it is still unfortunate.

In total, the State Department has issued “Do Not Travel” warnings for 22 countries, including Afghanistan, Belarus, Burma, Central African Republic, Gaza, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Mali, Niger, North Korea, Russia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, and Yemen. In some cases, such as Venezuela, Americans are advised to “depart immediately” due to escalating instability. The offense of this administration has made American travelers targets, and for those that work abroad financial stability can be deeply affected.

The Trump Administration’s policies are rooted in national security concerns, citing high visa overstay rates, unreliable documentation, and terrorist threats. While these measures aim to protect Americans, they also create new risks for travelers:

• Heightened scrutiny at U.S. entry ports: Americans may face longer wait times and more rigorous screening, especially when traveling with non-citizens from banned countries.
• Legal and bureaucratic hurdles abroad: Some countries have introduced confusing bans on items like tobacco, prescription medications, and have tightened entry requirements. Failure to comply can result in detention or deportation.
• Limited consular support: In countries with reciprocal bans or strained diplomatic relations, Americans may find it harder to access U.S. embassy services in emergencies.
• The ripple effects of these policies extend to the travel industry. International travel to the U.S. has declined, with a projected loss of $12–19 billion in tourism revenue for 2026. American travelers abroad are also feeling the pinch, as some destinations impose new taxes, fees, and vetting requirements. For example, the “Visa Integrity Fee” now adds $250 per person for non-immigrant visas, making travel more expensive for families.

For Americans planning international travel in 2026, preparation is more important than ever:

• Check the latest State Department advisories for your destination and monitor updates regularly.
• Verify entry requirements and visa status before booking travel, especially for countries affected by bans or reciprocal restrictions.
• Prepare for extra vetting and documentation requests at both U.S. and foreign borders.
• Avoid non-refundable bookings and consult immigration attorneys for complex cases.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time alerts and consular support.

Major global events, such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2028 Olympics, and the world tours of musical artists such as BTS are also affected by these policies. Visa restrictions and travel bans may prevent athletes, fans, and officials from participating or attending, raising questions about the inclusivity and success of these international gatherings.

Under the Trump Administration in 2026, Americans face a more complex and restrictive environment for international travel. While the stated aim is to enhance safety and security, the reality is a patchwork of bans, reciprocal restrictions, and heightened scrutiny that can make travel more challenging and, in some cases, less safe. Americans must stay informed, plan carefully, and remain adaptable to navigate this new era of global mobility.

If you are planning to travel, as a Black American, it is important to be extra careful. The list of things to check can double because you can become more of a target with less access to assistance than normal. Many may look at their travel plans against the global landscape and say, “you only live once”. This is true, life can be an adventure, but it is okay to adjust your plans due to the climate. In many cases safety must be prioritized of experiences.

Staff Writer; Christian Starr

May connect with this sister over at Facebook; C. Starr and also Twitter; MrzZeta.

Also via email at; CStarr@ThyBlackMan.com.

Education should be the great equalizer, yet for many minority children, it remains a source of profound inequality. Historical legacies of segregation, underfunded schools, and discriminatory policies have left Black and Hispanic students disproportionately attending schools with fewer resources, less experienced teachers, and limited access to advanced coursework. These disparities begin early, with gaps in school readiness and achievement evident from kindergarten and persisting through high school and beyond. With this being known, American voted in an Administration that would make an already strained situation more devastating for children.

The consequences are far-reaching: lower graduation rates, reduced college enrollment, and diminished economic opportunities. The “education disparity cycle” means that poverty and racial status are both causes and consequences of low academic achievement. For Black and minority children, the struggle for educational equity is compounded by the reality that their schools are often located in neighborhoods marked by poverty and social instability, further limiting their chances for success. To make matters worse, some students that beat the odds attaining academic success in school will still have trouble finding success because the disparity they encountered in school is waiting for them upon graduation with force.

Gun violence is now the leading cause of death for children and teens in the United States, with Black children disproportionately affected. Weak gun laws and easy access to firearms have created an environment where shootings—both in schools and communities—are tragically common. The trauma of gun violence extends far beyond those struck by bullets; millions of children witness shootings each year, and the psychological scars can last a lifetime. Some children that love learning hate school because they never know if or when they will face the school shooter. Furthermore, many of them are old enough to understand they are not a priority in their country when placed against the second amendment.

Research shows that exposure to gun violence leads to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among children. Academic achievement suffers as children struggle to focus, attend school regularly, and retain information. Black and Latino youth are especially vulnerable, with gun assaults accounting for the majority of firearm deaths in these communities. The impact is not limited to direct victims. The constant threat of violence creates a climate of fear and instability, undermining children’s sense of safety and belonging. For Black children, who are over 13 times more likely to die by firearm homicide than their white peers, the risk is compounded by systemic inequities in housing, employment, and access to mental health care.

Civil unrest—whether sparked by police violence, racial injustice, or economic hardship—has a profound effect on the mental health of children, particularly those in marginalized communities. News of racially motivated violence, such as mass shootings targeting Black Americans, reverberates through entire communities, instilling fear, anger, and a sense of vulnerability.

Children exposed to civil unrest may experience withdrawal, anger, and desensitization to violence. The disruption of safe spaces—schools, community centers, even homes—erodes trust in institutions and can lead to long-term psychological harm. For Black and minority children, the intersection of civil unrest and systemic racism amplifies feelings of alienation and hopelessness.

The relationship between gun violence, poverty, and educational disparities is deeply intertwined. Studies show that poverty is both a cause and consequence of violence, with under-resourced communities experiencing higher rates of gun ownership, homicides, and economic hardship. The economic cost of gun violence is staggering, draining resources that could otherwise support education, health care, and community development.

Policy decisions matter. The rollback of gun safety initiatives and the underfunding of mental health services have left vulnerable children with fewer supports. Meanwhile, efforts to ban the teaching of race in schools and dismantle affirmative action threaten to widen achievement gaps and perpetuate cycles of inequality. These issues remove any hope that may have existed in the minds of children.

America’s future depends on its children. To truly prioritize them, the nation must confront the interconnected crises of educational inequity, gun violence, and civil unrest. This means investing in schools, enacting sensible gun laws, and addressing the root causes of poverty and discrimination. It means listening to the voices of Black and minority children, whose experiences too often go unheard. Everything from CPS and foster care system would have to be re-structured. Children are not the priority if any of them are being groomed for the “Prison Pipeline”. This would mean how America hands juveniles, the justice department, and the state of how corrections are addressed would have to change. Prioritizing children would mean truly changing the world they will live in as adults.  Only by acknowledging and addressing these challenges can America hope to build a society where every child—regardless of race or background—can grow up safe, healthy, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Staff Writer; Christian Starr

May connect with this sister over at Facebook; C. Starr and also Twitter; MrzZeta.

Also via email at; CStarr@ThyBlackMan.com.

Black Americans have always known that America can be a nightmare. The promise of liberty and justice is often a mirage, visible but never fully attainable. Leadership, regardless of party or era, has shown itself loyal to no one but its own interests. This knowledge is not theoretical—it is lived, felt in the daily realities of discrimination, economic exclusion, and the ever-present threat of violence. When the Trump administration rose to power, Black America did not need to wait for policies to be enacted or rhetoric to escalate; the signs were already clear. The administration’s base, built on resentment and exclusion, was destined to be turned upon, just as Black America had experienced time and again.

As the political climate grew more volatile, Black Americans reached out to other minority groups, urging caution and solidarity. The message was simple: choosing Trump would be voting against your own safety. The administration’s disregard for Black lives was not an isolated phenomenon—it was a harbinger of broader harm. Yet, these warnings were often dismissed or ignored. Some believed that proximity to whiteness, or alignment with certain policies, would shield them from the worst outcomes. Black America knew better. The machinery of American power is indiscriminate in its pursuit of self-preservation; it will sacrifice anyone, regardless of race, religion, or origin, if it serves its purpose.

Now, as the consequences of those political choices unfold, everything Black America said would happen to other groups are happening. The administration that once courted the votes of immigrants, religious minorities, and marginalized communities has turned on them with the same ferocity it once reserved for Black Americans; ironically Trump told these groups he would hurt them, but they only saw the administration hurting Black Americans.  Policies that target immigrants, rollbacks of civil rights protections, and the emboldening of hate groups have created an environment of fear and uncertainty. The nightmare that Black America warned about is no longer confined to their community—it has become a shared reality for many.

Why were these warnings ignored? The answer lies in America’s long history of disregarding Black voices. Expertise, insight, and lived experience are often devalued when they come from Black Americans. This disregard is not just a social failing—it is a strategic error. Black America’s understanding of the country’s political and social dynamics is unparalleled, forged in the crucible of struggle and resistance. To ignore these voices is to court disaster, as recent events have shown.

The loyalty of American leadership is a mirage, shifting with the winds of political expediency. Black Americans have always known this, and now other groups are learning the lesson firsthand. Promises made during campaigns are quickly abandoned, alliances are broken, and communities are left to fend for themselves. The Trump administration’s pivot away from its base is not an anomaly—it is the logical outcome of a system that values power over people.

If there is a lesson to be learned from this moment, it is the necessity of solidarity. Black America’s warnings were not just about self-preservation—they were an invitation to build a coalition of the marginalized, to stand together against the forces that seek to divide and conquer. The current crisis is an opportunity to listen, to learn, and to act in concert. Only by valuing the insight and leadership of Black Americans can the country hope to move toward a more just and equitable future.

Black Americans know America—not just its ideals, but its realities. Their warnings were not heeded, and now the consequences are being felt across the nation. As other groups grapple with the nightmare that Black America has long endured, whether or not there is a chance to forge new alliances and demand accountability from leadership has yet to be seen. The path forward is uncertain, but one thing is clear: ignoring Black voices is no longer an option. The wisdom of experience must guide the way, lest the cycle of betrayal and disappointment continue.

Unfortunately, the voice of Black Americans is still not heard completely heard though various groups are feeling the disparity of the consequences of their vote. Some still find a way to blame Black Americans, while demanding they enter the fight to free America from herself. Black America knows without a doubt that the only ally they truly have is each other. Granted there are some in every community that have stood and stand with Black Americans. The problem is it is not enough currently to combat the masses. Black Americans will continue to protect themselves as they always have while moving their community forward. They just may not be as open to fighting for everyone.

Staff Writer; Christian Starr

May connect with this sister over at Facebook; C. Starr and also Twitter; MrzZeta.

Also via email at; CStarr@ThyBlackMan.com.

Church is a different kind of classroom, and at some point, it must become one. Too many are able to leave church feeling better, which is positive, but they are not actually able to apply the message to their life. Sometimes there may have been too much crammed into the sermon so it’s difficult to digest. Then there are times there is more of an emotional message and not enough to personally apply.

I cannot speak for others, but I need to be taught at church. There is so much that happens throughout the week. The challenges can be stacked at any time. What can I use to help me battle the spiritual wickedness and overcome the challenges of the week? This is an important question, because there should be something we can go back to other than “God is good”. Sometimes the situation is caused by the believer in some way. That fault may not be intentional at all…it can be something like correcting an area of our prayer life. It could be that we need to work on how we process information or communicate with others. Maybe we need a better understanding of faith so that we can function within it properly. A lack of understanding regarding healing or dominion as a believer can affect how we approach situations and attacks.

Different methods to strengthen self spiritually that can bless other parts of our life is important. Understanding on how to guide our children and family properly in terms of Godly principle is also important.  This and so much more can be taught in church, and those lessons can help us dive deeper in spiritually as we study in our personal time.

There is a disconnect that occurs when the teaching element is missing from service. Yes, a sermon will be given but that does not mean a lesson was taught that day. It does not mean the congregation was spiritually fed. Yes, everyone in the sanctuary is on a different level, and requires different things to grow. However, what we should look for is which teaching style is best for us, but the teaching is necessary. Regurgitated sermons with traditional parts that make us feel comfortable won’t always help us when trouble comes. We need foundation and we need to be guided in the word and that should be expected just as much as what we receive in Praise and Worship. The hardest part is the teaching doesn’t always feel good. It can internally chastise, bring about conviction, and even repentance. This is not the feel-good part of service and making it such deprives the believer of the tools they need to function within their faith. Too many of us are walking around not truly understanding the word, what our walk should be individually or collectively, and this can create confusion and discouragement.

As our children sit in the congregation, their foundation is also being built. Their expectations of this aspect of their life is being shaped. They are learning to balance emotion and passion with sound teaching…or not. This becomes important as they begin to navigate life. When situations arise, we want them to be able to pull from what they have been taught biblically and add that to their decision-making process. They will either look back and see that church was able to help them get their dark times, or that it was good for fellowship but did not teach them the foundation of their faith and how to stand in it. Being in a congregation whereby all parts of you are fed is important. Having a pastor that teaches you the word in a manner that gives you something to pull from when you face life’s challenges is valuable and in some space’s lifesaving.

Staff Writer; Christian Starr

May connect with this sister over at Facebook; C. Starr and also Twitter; MrzZeta.

Also via email at; CStarr@ThyBlackMan.com.

Stereotypes exist in every space and they are damaging. It is difficult to see our people stereotype each other knowing that we face it on a larger scale from others. Stereotypes ought not be used to hold someone accountable because it speaks against the character of the person trying to hold one to account. This is difficult to digest for some because they won’t like that they can’t just call someone a thug, or fast, or angry, or violent or ungodly as a way to hold them accountable in areas where growth is needed. All of those things have an origin and none of that addresses the issue. We need to take a long look in the mirror regarding how we hold people in our life accountable.

The first thing one should do is look at themselves honestly. If you know you battle with anger, unforgiveness, or have been given help to get on your feet then you must take these things into consideration before you come for another. Far too often, especially with young people, they are stereotyped and labeled by others who should be willing to help them. Yes, I’m talking about families that look down on their members that don’t have it together. Being condescending and labeling these loved ones is not holding them accountable. It’s not teaching them how to own themselves, and their situations so that growth can begin. Far too often we are not willing to be honest about what happened to these family members. In the attempt to protect the “favorites” in the family we won’t hold them accountable for what they have done to those we demand to be accountable. This is a touchy topic for too many so there is no accountability across the board. Those spiraling are unwilling to hear because they know how they are seen, and they begin to recognize they are alone.

Family elders must stop stereotyping their younger family members. Too many elders need a come to Jesus with themselves, and because they can better hide their lack of accountability, they think it’s unseen. Too many lean on deference and respect feeling that no one should speak to them a certain way. The truth is if you are honest with an elder in a respectful tone, they will then deem you disrespectful simply because the truth is told. Far too often this turns into a shouting match, and the younger member is given more negative labels and ungodly might be one of them. These family members can be lost because they will understand there is a lack of accountability, and hypocrisy. They may choose to come around less or not at all. Unfortunately, there are times whereby this is also the troubled family member. They could end up losing their life because of how they were seen so they were never loved properly. And we all know the funeral is going to be a re-writing of history about how they were so loved. It’s tragic.

The younger generations must be mindful of this very same thing. Too many of us give no grace but demand it. The elders of the family are human beings and imperfect. If they humble themselves and teach the lessons through transparency that is a blessing. We ought not to label them and use that information to tear them down, or as a reason not to heed their warning. Many of them have seen things they pray we never do, blowing them off with labels that are not justified to avoid accountability doesn’t help us grow and become better.

The bottom line is labels and stereotypes have no place in the discussion of accountability nor responsibility. When this happens relationships and communities shatter as hypocrisy surfaces in an ugly way. We must see accountability, and address it, though the lens of love, care, and honesty. More of our loved ones would be saved if we just took the time to check self then address others with healing as the goal.

Staff Writer; Christian Starr

May connect with this sister over at Facebook; C. Starr and also Twitter; MrzZeta.

Also via email at; CStarr@ThyBlackMan.com.