Since Dallas Justice Now unveiled its historic college pledge this summer, we have come under criticism by some for our willingness to demand that those who claim they are our friends and allies should act like it and make sacrifices to bridge the multi-trillion dollar racial wealth gap. Many wealthy white parents in the Park Cities gasped at the concept of sending a child to a slightly less prestigious school despite studies that show kids from wealthy backgrounds are likely to thrive regardless of where they go to school (while the same is not true for students of color). Unsurprisingly, the powerful whites and their racist white lackies in the media began a campaign to attack Dallas Justice Now just like generations of racist whites before them had attempted to do to Fred Hampton, Malcolm X, and even Dr. King. If they cannot control us, they attempt to slander and malign us.
I recently had the opportunity to look over the critiques both from racists in the media and comments on social media and I noticed a common thread:
Every single person attacking Dallas Justice Now is white.
This is consistent with my experience promoting our message across town. When I speak about our message to black activists, leaders, pastors, government leaders, there is support for my message of having accountability in our schools, better educational opportunities for and for the historic college pledge. Candidly, not every black leader agrees with the college pledge. But when they disagree they do so not because they disagree with the idea but rather the choice of tactics. These are strategic discussions we can, will, and must have within our community. Black people are not a monolith and we have not always agreed on the strategies to employ in pursuit of our goals. If some black leaders disagree with our strategies and want to talk and debate, let’s talk! But these discussions are for us to have, not for whites.
I will not tolerate any criticism of Dallas Justice Now from white people.
Their voices have been heard, amplified, listened to for too many years while our voices have been stomped down, delegitimized, and silenced. Sit down, shut up, and listen.
What do I want from white people?
#1. Listen to our lived experiences. Truly hear us when we speak about the multi trillion dollar wealth gap, educational disparities, experiences with policing, and more. Do not assume that we have loyalty to any political party or that we owe loyalty to politicians from either party since both parties have ignored our voices and taken us for granted
#2: Sacrifice to make things better. If you have a friend who only took and never went out of their way to help you, would you consider them a friend? NO. Then why would we consider someone an ally when they refuse to make sacrifices to improve the wellbeing of people of color. If you want to make a sacrifice today, then take the College Pledge!
To be clear, I am happy to work with white people but I will not constantly beg to prove myself to them because I do not seek their acceptance.