1 Corinthians 12:27 states (NIV): “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it”. As believers and disciples of Jesus, in the body of Christ, we know that we are all sons and daughters of God our creator, and in him that is no color. Galatians 3:28 states (NIV): “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If we are all one according to the scriptures, it’s worth considering how and why the Black Church developed. The Black Church in the United States has its roots as a heartfelt response to the struggles of slavery, racism, and being excluded from predominantly white churches. It grew as a space of hope, resilience, and community for many.

The Black church offered a platform for personal development, growth, independence, spiritual autonomy, and the opportunity to attain a significant identity, enabling individuals to think independently and not perceive themselves as second-class citizens, despite the perceptions held by other racial groups. We must also remember that the Black Church offered safety and protection in spiritual, physical, and intellectual domains.

When the Black community asks, “What has happened to the Black Church?” it’s a gentle call for us all to look inward and reflect on how we’ve been affected—both personally and together. Since Scripture reminds us that we are the church, as believers, we should take responsibility for its current state and consider why many in our community view it as less vital or even discouraging. Have we come to believe, after witnessing the election of a Black president, that we live in a post-racial society and that the Black church might no longer be needed? Have our sisters grown so spiritually minded that they might now see religion and the scriptures as less important in their lives? Are we so confident in our education and credentials that faith sometimes feels less important unless supported by data and facts? Could it be that the training, safety, and support we once treasured from the Black church now seem outdated because we doubt whether our Black preachers are truly ready to lead, teach, and guide us? Maybe some pastors have shifted their focus toward fame and wealth, prioritizing personal success over genuinely caring for our spiritual needs. Perhaps we’ve become distracted by the glitz, entertainment, and size of our churches, losing sight of our true mission to uplift and empower our communities. It’s worth asking if we’ve become too narrow in our focus, only looking after ourselves and forgetting the importance of caring for our neighbors. Have we fallen into the trap of hearing only messages about prosperity, allowing our ears to become dull to words about repentance, suffering, and self-denial?

Are our pastors focusing more on members being in the right offering line than genuinely caring for God’s people? Have we bought into the idea that every young Black male is a YN and a threat, instead of seeing them as sons? Have we stopped seeing our brothers as brothers and instead view them as burdens that are too heavy to carry? Let’s remember that God calls us to look out for widows, to provide for our children, and to love our wives as Christ loved the church. If the Black church is struggling, it’s because we as a people are struggling. If the Black church doesn’t seem to have all the answers, it’s because we, ourselves, are searching for answers too.

If the Black Church is to truly regain its important role and impact in the world and within the body of Christ, we all need to embrace our rightful places—whether in our homes, with our families, in our communities, or at our workplaces. It’s important to walk faithfully in our own unique paths with God and live out our daily lives with purpose. Even the brightest lights can sometimes dim or burn out, making it hard for us to see what’s important. But we’re grateful to serve a God who knows exactly how to recharge, renew, and revitalize us, so we can continue to let our little lights shine brightly. The next time someone asks what transpired with the Black Church, please respond by asking, “What happened to you?”

Staff Writer; Jamie Seals

May also connect with this brother on Twitter; mychocolatemind.

Also drop an email at; JSeals@ThyBlackMan.com.

Numerous African Americans and individuals of diverse races, genders, and creeds would assert that the current state of America we are witnessing and experiencing does not resemble the Promised Land envisioned by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in our minds. Some may argue that, despite its promise, potential, and preeminence, America falls woefully short of the Promised Land that Moses saw, as described in the Bible, Deuteronomy 34:4. As we observe the increasing unemployment rate among Black women, it becomes evident that the metaphorical mountain-top experience and perspective are no longer sufficient. Furthermore, the persistent targeting of young Black boys within the school-to-prison pipeline underscores the inadequacy of merely reaching a high vantage point. The widening economic disparity between the wealthy and the impoverished continues at an unprecedented rate, demonstrating that merely possessing a lofty viewpoint is no longer adequate. Additionally, the ongoing threats against synagogues and other houses of worship, fueled by hatred and narrow-mindedness, highlight that having a mere mountain-top perspective is insufficient. Watching the dehumanization of the LGBTQIA community reminds us that climbing a mountain and viewing the Promised Land isn’t enough. Lastly, with entities such as ICE, the National Guard, Congress, the Senate, the Supreme Court, and the current President, Donald Trump, continually modifying and redefining regulations, it is evident that settling for a mountain-top experience and view is no longer a viable option for us as a people.

Black Americans and all individuals of diverse races, genders, creeds, and socioeconomic statuses must begin to inquire whether all our leaders and institutions, such as the Congressional Black Caucus, the Black Church, our Pastors, our civil rights organizations, our Black media and influencers, our HBCUs, our Mayors, and Governors, along with our fellow Republicans, Democrats, and Independents, and ourselves, have metaphorically ‘died on the mountain’ while viewing the Promised Land, or if we have lost our sense of the present moment as Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. reminded us that we must always uphold. For many people, the loss of a sense of urgency is far more detrimental than dying atop the mountain after witnessing the promised land. Complacency and indifference have contributed and will persist as factors undermining the progress of Black America and the United States as a whole if immediate action is not taken.

Having ascended the metaphorical mountain of corporate America, only to be afforded a limited view of the Promised Land, has this achievement become more significant than the endeavor of moving that very mountain for future generations? Have recognition, status, and material accumulation become priorities over leading one’s community towards the Promised Land, Pastors? Has the strategy of compliance to secure financial stability and positions taken precedence over speaking truth to power within Civil Rights organizations? Additionally, has securing a seat at the table—only to be served last and receive crumbs—become more valuable to Black Media and Black influencers than authentic and genuine representation? Has your personal aspiration for happiness overshadowed your responsibilities towards God, your family, and your community? If you find yourself agreeing with any of these questions, it may indicate that you have either already died on the mountain or perhaps you have lost the awareness of the present moment.

What is our subsequent course of action? This question should be examined daily by all. Do we persist in scaling and ascending solely to attain the summit of the mountain, providing only a fleeting glimpse of the promised land, without ever truly experiencing it? Or do we come to the realization that not all mountains should be climbed to get to the promised land, that some mountains must be moved? MTR is recognized as mountain-top removal using explosives. Black Americans and all Americans must realize that we are the only explosives we need to move the mountains in our way. My brothers and sisters, have you spoken to your mountain? Have you commanded it to get out of your way? Or have you succumbed to the height, depth, width, and the work required to move it? Black Americans and all Americans must know that there is no objection to ascending to the summit to observe the Promised Land. However, I believe that Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., on August 28, 1963, was urging us to overcome all mountains and obstacles in pursuit of the Promised Land. In celebration of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, take a moment to recognize the challenges ahead and imagine the possibilities. Be inspired not just to overcome for yourself, but to make a difference for the generations that follow, just as our ancestors and Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King did for us.

Staff Writer; Jamie Seals

May also connect with this brother on Twitter; mychocolatemind.

Also drop an email at; JSeals@ThyBlackMan.com.

I do not hold any resentment towards our Black Queens, who occasionally must remind us that our actions or inactions evidently reveal that, as Black men, we sometimes lose our way, prompting them to comment, ‘I hope it was worth it.’ I am asserting that Black women should serve as the moral compass for Black men. The response is negative because every individual alive bears a cross that they must accept and carry, as stated in “Luke 9:23.” I wish I could assert that I have never been on the receiving end of a comment from a Black woman saying to me, ‘I hope it was worth it.’ Nevertheless, I must admit that I have experienced this on various occasions for different reasons. As we observe the rise and fall of figures such as Shannon Sharpe, Sean Combs, Robert Kelly, Bill Cosby, Dr. Umar Johnson, Mel Tucker, Brother Polight, Kanye West, Kwame Kilpatrick, Apostle David Taylor, Bishop Marvin Winans, Bishop Charles H. Ellis III, Sherrone Moore and ourselves as Black men, we must begin to question whether it is ever worth it. What’s your it? Is it fame, fortune, power, women, respect, having your ego stroked, or is it the need to be right? Now you must ask yourself whether it is worth it. I know by now you are asking, “Worth what?” Is it worth it for you to separate yourself from God? Is it worth losing a good name and reputation? Is it worth your career? Is it worth losing your family? Is it worth losing a bond of closeness that may never be replicated? Is it worth the damage and harm it will cause to the community? Is it worth harming the body of Christ? And is it worth your soul, which is priceless?

To respond to the question of whether it is worth it, it is essential for Black men and all individuals to acknowledge their inherent worth. In 2001, R&B award-winning artist Alicia Keys reminded some and informed others of a woman’s worth. To all my Black brothers and people in general, we must recognize and remember that we are created in the image of God, as stated in “Genesis 1:27”. We are all blessed to know that we are fearfully and wonderfully made, as stated in “Psalm 139:14.” Our value as Black men should never be reduced to merely our sexual prowess, our capacity to acquire and sustain wealth or possessions, or our titles and credentials, which do not determine our true worth. We possess a significance that transcends the superficial attributes many try to use to judge and define us. We must never forget that our worth and contributions to the world should not be reduced to a single metric, as maintaining the correct perspective is essential.

To all my Black brothers, do not attach yourself to things that are fragile and can change overnight. Remember, your worth to the world is outlined and defined by God before you are born. After God looked at everything he created, he said it was good (Genesis 1:31). Every day, wake up with the knowledge that in the eyes of God, your Creator, your worth is affirmed when you act in accordance with His will and way.  You have contributed to advancements in civil rights, cultural accomplishments, and significant political milestones. Black men, your value is demonstrated through your activism, your presence, inventions, literature, governance, and your role within the religious community, all of which have played a pivotal role in shaping American society and the global community.

As Black men, we stand on the shoulders of the ancestors who came before us because Malcom X, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Fredrick Douglass, Nelson Mandela, Garrett Morgan, George Washington Carver, Langston Hughes, James Baldwin, Louis Armstrong, Thurgood Marshall, Booker T. Washington, Fred Hampton, W.E.B. Du Bois, Jackie Robinson, Muhammad Ali, Toussaint Louverture and hosts of others that also includes me and you know that somethings are worth it. The next time the world tries to remind you of all the failures and perceived degenerate behaviors of Black men, which leads them to say to you, “I hope it was worth it.” Respond by stating that some things are worth it. Your family is worth it, your name is worth it, your peace is worth it, your community is worth it, and your relationship with God is worth it. I understand you are repeatedly asking yourself the same question, ‘What is it worth, Jamie? Fighting for.’ As you continue to move forward, persist in breaking barriers, reshaping societies, and maintaining your presence within your homes and community.

Staff Writer; Jamie Seals

May also connect with this brother on Twitter; mychocolatemind.

Also drop an email at; JSeals@ThyBlackMan.com.

Even within the Holy Scriptures, after the moment in which Jesus quelled the turbulent winds and the sea by declaring, “Peace, be still,” his devoted disciples posed the question, “What manner of man is this, that even the wind and sea obey him?” (Mark 4:35-41). It is crucial for all individuals, especially fathers, to acknowledge that their criteria for manhood, as well as their definitions of a successful father, should not be dictated, established, or compared to any other individual or established standard. Instead, these criteria should be aligned with the teachings of God and His Son, Jesus, who serve as our exemplary models and standards to emulate.

In 2016, the critically acclaimed film “Fences” featured the world-renowned actor Denzel Washington, who emphasized to all fathers, prospective fathers, their children, and every attentive listener that while fathers are not obligated to have affection for their children, they do possess a responsibility, a duty, and an obligation to act in their children’s best interest, as they owe them more than just the life that they helped bring into existence with the assistance of God. Every father, irrespective of his present circumstances, past achievements, or current challenges, must recognize that each day he awakens, he owes a duty to God, himself, and his child or children. The failures we experience as men and fathers yield a compounding effect that incurs interest that we may never fully repay within our lifetimes. Every individual who is fortunate enough to assume the role of a father must endeavor daily to fulfill all his obligations.

As we commemorate another Father’s Day, we all must refer to our roadmap for success, which is the Word of God. In the book of Genesis, Chapter 27, we uncover several insightful and sacred principles that illuminate what every father is obligated to provide for his children. Gone are the days, times, and beliefs that held the Black community hostage, where Black Fathers held to the notion that all I must do is get them to the age of 18, and my job is done. In the passage, in verse 1, we observe Isaac in the later years of his life continuing to remain present and accessible to his children, both of whom had reached an age sufficient for marriage and for the procurement of food independently. Frequently, we falter in our roles as fathers due to our lack of presence and availability. To achieve success as a father, as prescribed by the word of God, it is imperative that one embodies both qualities. An excessive number of individuals find themselves physically present yet emotionally unavailable, as their thoughts, anxieties, and concerns overwhelm them. In the text, Isaac is depicted as elderly and afflicted by diminished vision, yet he remains both present and accessible to his two adult sons. We must also recognize that mere presence is insufficient. It is the desire of God for us to engage in the lives of our child or children actively.

If any man aspires to embody the qualities of a father that aligns with divine approval, it is imperative that they are not only present and accessible but also recognize that, even when their children reach adulthood, they should continue to offer guidance, instruction, and teaching, as exemplified by Isaac in verses 2-4. The bible says, “My son, hear the instruction of thy father and forsake not the law of your mother” (Proverbs 1:8). For a son or any child to receive guidance from a father, it is imperative that the father possesses insights that are impactful, transformative, and in harmony with the teachings of the word of God. The focus of our guidance to our children should no longer center on the pursuit of monetary gain, seeking revenge, or strategies for attracting the romantic partner of our dreams. Whether we acknowledge it or not, we provide our children with guidance daily, even in moments of silence, through our actions and behaviors.

Each day that we are privileged to awaken constitutes a blessing and a miracle bestowed upon us by God. Just as God, who is our heavenly Father, bestows and grants us blessings as a father, we should aim to bestow blessings upon our children throughout their lives, like Issac did in verses 4 and 29. When God bestows upon a man the role of fatherhood, it is imperative that he becomes resolute and maintains such focus, for the implications extend beyond his concerns. Regrettably, many children endure hardships because their fathers remain consumed by self-centered beliefs. The aspiration and prayer of every father ought to be to ensure that his children experience a life that surpasses his own.

In other words, every father should have something to give to his children besides debt and a rolling stone mentality and legacy. Should one examine the text that Isaac provided to his children without any prior prompting or request, it becomes apparent that Isaac exemplifies for fathers the imperative of surpassing the immature mentality that has impeded our community. This mentality is delineated by the predominant belief among numerous Black men that assistance in nurturing the success of their sons or children in adulthood is only merited when explicitly solicited or pleaded for. As Isaac prepared to bestow blessings upon his sons, he indeed recalled the various challenges he had encountered throughout his own adult life. Consequently, I urge every father to reflect on this and to transcend the belief that their children must struggle unnecessarily as adults to be successful.

While most individuals strive to navigate life debt-free, every father must realize that when he is blessed with fatherhood, he now owes a debt for the remainder of his life, even after his children have grown into grown adults. Every father owes his children his presence, his availability, and he owes them guidance and blessings throughout their lives. The pertinent question arises: as a father, what obligations do you hold towards your children, and are you fulfilling those obligations? My father consistently emphasized the principle that if one owes a debt to another, it is imperative to repay it. The most authentic method of repaying the obligations owed to one’s children is by adhering to the guidelines provided by God regarding the conduct expected of every father.

Staff Writer; Jamie Seals

May also connect with this brother on Twitter; mychocolatemind.

Also drop an email at; JSeals@ThyBlackMan.com.

The Forgotten Black Children

I acknowledge that Minister Malcolm X was advocating for Black women who are marginalized and illuminated the contributions of Black women, whom numerous Americans argue are integral to the prosperity and strength of this nation as we recognize it today. The disrespect, lack of protection, and neglect endured by Black women in America have contributed to the vulnerability, marginalization, and oversight that currently plagues Black children across our nation. While it is true that Black women are disrespected, unprotected, and neglected, I contend that Black children are the most vulnerable, overlooked, and forgotten in our society. It is understood from agricultural principles that if a tree is afflicted, it is likely to produce less fruit or an inferior quality of fruit, if any at all. The same principles are true for humanity if the Black woman serves as a representation of the tree from which we all get our roots and foundation, if the Black woman is ill-cared for, black children will be defenseless unless protection is provided while they grow their roots. Agriculture has taught us that planting posts to support trees is necessary to provide stability and support for newly planted trees, especially for trees in harsh environments.  Our national anthem is clear: we are in the land of the free and the home of the brave. Still, if we are honest, inequality is prevalent for black children and all individuals who are on the lower end of the socioeconomic spectrum, which continues to make America a harsh environment in which to live. I wish to clarify that the challenges and circumstances faced by our Black children are not solely the responsibility of Black women; Black men share a portion of the accountability, along with American society as a whole, for failing to guide them appropriately in accordance with the teachings of Proverbs 22:6. Our Black children should not be labeled as a lost generation; instead, they are a left generation, as they are not receiving consistent, adequate guidance, protection, nurturing, education, and love due to a lack of recognition of their inherent worthiness that demands our responsibility.

 The Black girl exploitation phenomenon

Since the year 1619, young Black girls have been, and continue to be, positioned in a state of powerlessness, as they are judged and valued based on their appearance, body shape, and sexual appeal from the tender age of three. This evaluation occurs with no regard for their intellect, character, or potential for future success. Without the support and protection of caring adults, as well as the safeguarding provided by a community, Black girls will persist in being vulnerable to exploitation by society. From Sally Hemings to Oprah Winfrey, to Little Ms. Shirley, and to the countless unrecognized narratives of young Black girls who are perpetually being exploited in various forms for the personal gain and gratification of those who seek to take advantage of their innocence and youth, it is imperative to acknowledge their plight.

Annually, there are alarming statistics that highlight a troubling trend concerning the disproportionately elevated rates of missing Black girls when compared to their white counterparts and their overall representation within the population of the United States. However, the Black community remains largely silent, while American society, in general, appears indifferent. When we fail to appreciate the invaluable nature of children, who are blessings bestowed upon us by God in various forms, we become capable of ignoring the realities that others face, particularly the defenseless children in our midst.

American society has consistently confined young Black girls to the belief that it is their obligation and responsibility to care for those around them, irrespective of their age, often to the detriment of their psychological well-being. Regrettably, when young Black girls ought to be engaging in play with Barbie dolls and exploring subjects such as STEM, they are compelled to undertake household tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, and babysitting younger siblings, extended family members, and family friends, simply due to their gender. When young Black girls are compelled to assume the nurturing role prematurely, it can lead them to perceive the world and relationships in a significantly altered manner. This phenomenon may lead them to believe that they must transform into independent Black women upon reaching adulthood. Black Men and Black Women must provide young Black girls with the opportunity to observe a healthy relationship between a Black man and a Black woman, characterized by support and compromise.

Man of the house

While each case, circumstance, and situation is unique, statistical data indicates that Black children are more likely to be raised in a single-parent household compared to children of other racial backgrounds. Surprisingly, even among members of the Black community, statistical data demonstrate that, even in the absence of a Black father in the household, he remains more engaged in his children’s lives than men from other racial backgrounds. Despite the significant efforts of Black mothers and fathers, an alarming number of young Black boys assume the role and responsibility of being the ‘man of the house’ while still in their developmental years and are ill-prepared for such a substantial duty. Ralph Waldo Emerson articulated the notion of interconnectedness between actions and their subsequent consequences. Is it accurate to consider young Black boys, who ultimately transition into Black men, as victims of cause and effect? In numerous instances, the absence of a male figure within the household may lead a boy to adopt an identity that does not truly reflect his stage of development. When a young Black boy is compelled to assume a role that is not authentically his due to the absence of an adult male figure in the household, it may lead to a recurrence of young Black boys, who will eventually mature into men, opting out of familial commitments. This situation can perpetuate the detrimental cycle of single-parent family structures. Young Black boys who transition into Black Men often encounter ridicule from the Black community and society in general.  This unfortunate plight arises from the fact that, as adults, we have failed to provide them with adequate protection and guidance on effectively managing the associated threats and feelings of burnout. I frequently remind young Black boys, who bear the significant burdens placed upon their adolescent shoulders, that before achieving success for their mothers and siblings, they must first achieve success for themselves. This is imperative, as society has established the notion that there is nothing more unfavorable than an adult, able-bodied man who cannot provide for himself, irrespective of the challenges and mental trauma he may have faced during his childhood.

Where do we go from here?

The inquiries “Where do we go from here?” and “What is next?” are frequently posed when an individual or a collective endeavors to advance toward a solution. Throughout this composition, I aspire to have transformed your perspective as I aimed to provide a voice to the marginalized and illuminate the plight of our neglected children. Furthermore, I pay homage to Minister Malcolm X while recognizing the persistent injustices encountered by Black women to this day. If we genuinely wish to see our Black children afforded a fair opportunity in life, it is imperative that we respect them by neither permitting nor compelling them into roles for which they are unprepared. We must safeguard them from both self-harm and individuals who seek to exploit them for their own benefit, ensuring that, after divine providence, they receive our utmost attention. Whitney Houston reminded all of us that children represent our future, heritage, and legacy.

Staff Writer; Jamie Seals

May also connect with this brother on Twitter; mychocolatemind.

Also drop an email at; JSeals@ThyBlackMan.com.

Some individuals would argue that President Donald Trump’s election, inauguration, and second term are another indication that Blacks in America will have to contend with two central questions: What are we marching for? And are we able to move forward if we decide to march? Some Black Americans have concluded that President Donald Trump’s past and current proposed policies are only for the rich, leaving them to feel continually unheard, unseen, and unnoticed. The current perceived gender rift, economic rift, ageism rift, and social status rift in the Black community have left many Black Americans asking the question, where do we go from here? Some contend we should walk away from America and marching in general, while others demand that we keep trying. In the bible, when the children of Israel marched around the wall of Jericho for six days, their sole purpose was to take the city God had given them if they followed his command. Black Americans during the Civil Rights era marched for equality for all humanity. Our Black Lives Matter movement and marches occurred because we needed to remind the world and Blacks in America that Black people still matter. If America desires to be great, it must ensure everyone has a fair opportunity to achieve it regardless of background.

During President Trump’s inauguration celebration and festivities, we saw the HBCU Mississippi Valley State University marching band, Rappers Nelly and Snoop Dog, and others perform, participate, and champion their right to make a personal choice outside the collective group. Is Black America a monolith? No, but after watching their performances and participation, many Black Americans ask themselves and other individuals in the Black community if we are still marching and, if so, what we are marching for. Are we just marching for fame, fortune, recognition, the right to individualism, respect, or all the above? Or are we marching to impact and change the world? Even God, the creator and sustainer of humanity, allows us free will, so we must give that same liberty to our brothers and sisters even if we disagree with their choice. Over time, many of us have learned that our collective decisions and individual choices sometimes have lasting consequences that cannot be undone no matter how hard we try. Choices and decisions undoubtedly have consequences, so we must always strive to make educated, informed, and thoughtful choices because fame, fortune, recognition, and the right to individualism, be it on the republican, democratic, independent, green, libertarian or no vote spectrum is ever worth your soul.

Due to feeling left out, overlooked, marginalized, and having a love of money as their central focus, several individuals and groups in the Black community have taken on the drum major mentality of look at me because I am different and unique. When we separate ourselves from the collective group aside for righteousness, we are more likely to become a reflection of the entity that made us feel marginalized in the beginning. Every successful band or group of individuals has one sound and one motion, so everyone in the group can stay on point while they march. It doesn’t matter who is elected to the office of President in America. I have concluded that Black Americans must remain on point and guard for this generation and generations to come because being on the right side of history matters, and most importantly, being on God’s side matters the most.

We must continuously ask ourselves and our community if we are still marching and what we are marching for. If we are marching for anything other than righteousness and the betterment of our collective community, we are missing the mark, no matter what additional things we obtain. Black Americans must continue to march for justice, righteousness, peace, and protection. Individualism and personal gain should never trump what is best for our community. So, I will leave you with this parting question: Black Americans, what are we marching for collectively and individually?

Staff Writer; Jamie Seals

May also connect with this brother on Twitter; mychocolatemind.

Also drop an email at; JSeals@ThyBlackMan.com.

The Nightmare of Slavery, the nightmare of the Rebellion War,  the nightmare of Reconstruction, the nightmare of the Jim Crow South,  the nightmare of Fighting for Civil Rights, the nightmare of fighting for Gender Rights for black women, the nightmare of mass incarceration in the black community, the nightmare of over-policing and underfunding in black communities, the nightmare of gentrification, the nightmare of fighting to have the right to stay woke, and the nightmare of fighting for Right to show Black Lives Matter, all have contributed to a nightmare that many Black Americans are unable wake up from because this nightmare, has been inherited from one generation to the next.

On August 28, 1963, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. spoke about his dream for humanity, especially Black Americans, in his world-renowned “I Have a Dream” speech. American society celebrates Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. every year on His birthday, January 15. Like clockwork, many in the media, academia, and our leaders in our houses of worship all flock to the “I Have a Dream speech.” The dream that the Rev. Martin Luther King spoke of has yet to be realized for many black Americans.  American society has yet to fully live up to being a nation where men, women, boys, or girls can live without being judged by their gender or by the color of their skin, especially if they are black.

Critical, honest, and transparent conversations are necessary to have not just within the black community but with American society at large, regardless of race, ethnicity, color, creed, or gender. For far too long, numerous Black Americans have wondered if the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream still lives. At one time or another, many of us have asked ourselves that daunting question: should I even dare to have a dream, especially since his dream hasn’t come to fruition yet. Many black Americans generally question their capability of having a dream for the society in which they live because, in many cases, they have not been undergirded with positive reinforcements, positive affirmations, positive experiences, or a level playing field. When dreams become insignificant in the eyes, minds, and thoughts of the dreamers, thoughts of apathy and irrelevance become commonplace.

It would be easy to place all the blame and lay all the onus at the feet of American society for all the unanswered dreams, lack of dreams, and all the dreams that have been deferred for black Americans, but that would be unjust and unfair to do so.  As a member of the Black community, I realize we shouldn’t be guilty of being hypocrites or being guilty of lacking accountability for some of our poor choices and decisions.  If we, as Black Americans, lack accountability, we would be accountability dodgers since we have a part in our destiny. As Black Americans, we must be willing and able to hear the voices of Black Women when they tell us to tell others about the dream. As Black Americans, we must be willing to push our Black men to take a stand, provide leadership, and have soundness of mind and clarity of speech. As Black Americans, we must provide an environment where our children know the dream and have a dream of their own.

Individuals across the globe, regardless of their race, color, creed, ethnicity, or gender, proclaim that Americans are dream killers due to the injustices they perceive we have committed routinely. If our nation desires to be a beacon of hope and democracy, we must fix our nation first before assisting abroad.  If America truly desires for Black Americans to live in a country where we all can have a dream, we must realize we are in this life together. When Americans rise and become one, we can move from having and discussing a dream to realizing this is our reality.

Staff Writer; Jamie Seals

May also connect with this brother on Twitter; mychocolatemind.

Also drop an email at; JSeals@ThyBlackMan.com.

Many Americans from all backgrounds and ethnicities have envied some Black Americans and many individuals who suffered from mental health challenges throughout the years for their candid ability to have a rhythm, hear a beat and a different sound, and produce at a level that others could not replicate despite the many obstacles and challenges they may face daily. History has shown that Black Americans and many individuals with mental health challenges have thrived by taking broken and obscure pieces and things to go onto to produce thoughts, objects, inventions, organizations, and systems that are still thriving and being used worldwide even today.

Recently, President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance reminded Black Americans and many individuals who suffer from mental health challenges that our invitation to the dance they will be hosting for the next four years has been lost in the mail or that we are not invited in the first place. However, acquitted Marine Veteran Daniel Petty and many other individuals who may operate similarly have been invited to their party. President-elect Donald Trump and Vice-president-elect JD Vance hosted newly acquired Marine Veteran Daniel Petty in their suite to watch the Army vs. Navy college football game. Daniel Petty, a Marine veteran, had been charged in the death of street entertainer Jordan Neely, who was unhoused, with a challenging past, and suffered from mental health challenges.

Jordan Neely’s chance encounter with Marine Veteran Daniel Petty in the New York subway led to his demise. It is safe to assume that Daniel Petty learned to make educated and complex assessments for various situations as a Marine veteran. What happens when educated assessments collide with personal and cultural bias in American society? For centuries, it has led to the exclusion, execution, and extinction of individuals and marginalized groups. Our presidential elect, Donald Trump, and our vice president, JD Vance, also know how to make decisive assessments that continue to show personal and cultural basis towards many marginalized groups and selected individuals.

Many will contend Jordan Neely was a menace to society, and his behavior on that decisive night warranted the chokehold Marine Veteran Daniel Petty placed him in that ultimately cost him his life was justified. Various individuals from marginalized communities believe Marine Veteran Daniel Petty operated on a personal and cultural basis that many Black Americans and Americans with mental health challenges face in American society daily. If we are honest, we all have shied away from someone at some point, possibly because they seemed different. Our American culture is fortunate enough not to be monolithic, so we all should choose to embrace the perceived differences that could separate us. I am convinced that we all have had a dance with depression in our lives, despite the mask we may have displayed to the outside world. I have learned to embrace, accept, and become comfortable with everything that makes me different from my fellow man so I can see and understand the differences that come with other individuals.

Yes, indeed, everyone won’t accept, understand, or embrace the things that allow us to be different, like our gender, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, ethnicity, country of origin, or mental health status, but we are going to make it. Our ability to dance in life isn’t based on the invitation someone gives us. Our opportunity to dance comes from every moment we are blessed with. Walk, stroll, crawl, or roll into 2025 knowing you might have crumbs and no invite to their party or to be on anyone’s agenda, but you will make it if you refuse to give up.

Staff Writer; Jamie Seals

May also connect with this brother on Twitter; mychocolatemind.

Also drop an email at; JSeals@ThyBlackMan.com.

As adolescents, many of us indirectly heard a paraphrase of Carl Sagan’s writings: “There are naïve questions, tedious questions, ill-phrased questions… but every question is a cry to understand. There is no such thing as a dumb question.” Carl Sagan’s writings taught us that the only dumb question is the one that isn’t asked. That’s unless you are a Black man in America in the year 2024 who has been slow to speak or react in a manner that pleases the masses because you have additional unpopular questions that you need to be answered. We know this to be an accurate assessment based on the tongue-lashing that revered former President Barrick Obama received within the Black community and outside of the black community for delaying his endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris as the democratic nominee for President when President Joe Biden decided to end his reelection campaign.

To some, Black men have been suffering from a case of collective laryngitis for decades due to what has been perceived as their inaudible tones on critical social and political issues. While I am confident in my belief that black men still speak with and without audible sounds, I wonder if the black community and our nation have failed to ask the right question from the start. When black men speak, do they make a sound? While speaking up, speaking out, and speaking truth to power is a requirement of every individual who can do so, sometimes the lack of words black men and men generally choose to utilize speaks volumes to those who choose to pay attention. For any individual who may be skeptical if Black men speak, feel free to visit a black barbershop on Saturday morning or a typical black church congregation on Sunday morning, and contrary to popular opinion, you will find Black men speaking daily to and into their children lives as studies show Black men are the most involved fathers in their children’s activities in comparison to other race of men.

As a child, I sometimes witnessed seasoned black men struggle to be heard in the environments that mattered the most to them. The statement, “Now let me talk, ” still rings in my ears today. Despite our shortcomings personally, socially, or economically, we all deserve to be acknowledged and heard in the environments to which we contribute. I believe that some Black men have chosen to become vocal only in safe spaces due to the worry of receiving the label of being a narcissist that is so frequently ascribed to men in our society today. Most Black men abhor being labeled as narcissists or sassy or hearing the term toxic masculinity being associated with their name.

If we are honest, yes, some black men indeed bear some of the onus for their voices becoming muted and distorted in environments where they had previously been welcomed due to their actions, thoughts, and inactivity. God questioned Adam in the Garden of Eden by asking, “Where are you?” Sometimes, just like Adam, we have been out of place at the most vital moments when our community and family needed us the most. Unfortunately, some of our unwillingness to put our egos aside has helped accelerate the deterioration of the black man’s voice in our society, along with our overall lack of brotherly bond and cohesion that we all should desire to have.

If black men want to regain their collective voice in the 21^st century, there can’t be any significant I’s and little you’s in the brotherhood. Black men must be willing to allow their brothers to pull up a seat at the table of brotherhood with flaws, ill-informed opinions, limited credentials, and possible lack that all of us may exhibit at times. Black men must be willing to acknowledge and admit there is something a little flawed with all of us if we want our voices to be heard collectively again. Soul singer Donny Hathaway reminded us in 1971 when he sang “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s, My Brother.” Most importantly, regardless of our religious faith, all black men must know and believe that it is good for brothers to dwell together in unity.

Staff Writer; Jamie Seals

May also connect with this brother on Twitter; mychocolatemind.

Also drop an email at; JSeals@ThyBlackMan.com.

Despite the many accomplishments and contributions black women have provided to American society, they have often been viewed as items that could be auctioned off, replaced, and discarded. This failure to see the nuance of black girl magic and a black woman’s worth has been a long-standing issue. Vice President Kamla Harris isn’t the first black woman tasked with trying to help stabilize American society. Throughout the centuries, black women have played a crucial role in keeping America from reaching disaster. From the big house, cotton fields, working as domestics, midwives, and learning in segregated classrooms to integrating once segregated classrooms and becoming presidents at prominent academic universities, black women have always served, stood in the gap, and assisted with stabilizing our society when we needed it the most. Their historical significance, often overlooked, is a rich tapestry of resilience, strength, and unwavering commitment. This legacy commands our respect and admiration, a history that we must revere and honor, and it’s this respect and appreciation that will help us recognize the actual value of Black women in our society.

While many in American society still believe that it’s a man’s world, since the unpredicted rise of former President Donald Trump in 2016, a strong undercurrent has developed, leading to 2024 becoming the year of the woman, specifically the year of the black woman. Yes, even today, black women are often still misjudged, pigeonholed, and told to watch their tone and not to have joy despite some of their challenging circumstances. However, through it all and because of it all, black women are still rising in a nation that has been non-committal towards them, showing all of us that adversity, determination, a positive mindset along with the hand of God being on them, Black queens are being developed and have been developed in our challenging American society.

Recently, it was noted that former President Donald Trump has become fixated on the beauty of Vice President Kamla Harris, stating she is a beautiful woman. While former President Donald Trump may have earned his reputation for being a known liar by acknowledging the beauty of a black woman, he has finally added some truth to his distorted vocabulary at times. Is Vice President Kamla Harris beautiful? Are black women beautiful? The answer to both previous questions is undoubtedly and unwaveringly yes.  It isn’t black women’s anatomy that has caused them to be objectified and oversexualized throughout the years that allows them to be beautiful. It isn’t their hair, skin, or the everyday attire that they choose to wear. The soul of a black woman continuously nurtures, protects, and shows all of us how to love even when others have been and still are noncommittal towards us. Daring still to believe in joy, hope, and love is the most significant impact black women still make on our society daily.

At the 2016 national democratic convention, First Lady Micelle Obama debuted her catchphrase: “When they go low, we go high.” Many would contend that a few elements of American society have continuously gone low toward Black women since their arrival, which unknowingly has allowed black women to go high. Black women, continue to look beyond your current circumstances, stay focused on the sky, rise above the storms of life, and remember, if society fails to put a ring on it and stays non-committal towards you, know if you commit to God, he will commit to you even when others won’t and don’t see the value of committing to you.

Staff Writer; Jamie Seals

May also connect with this brother on Twitter; mychocolatemind.

Also drop an email at; JSeals@ThyBlackMan.com.