A Few Good Advocates

It can never be understated that a lot has been lost over the past few decades in terms of social awareness, justice, political gain and economic development.   Nowhere has those affects been more profound than upon African Americans and other people of color.  The planned and rapid changes in policy, laws, governance and due process has set back many of the gains of the civil right movement of the 1950’s and 1960’s.  Today, there continues to be attempts to reverse or restrict the rights of all Americans, especially those who are the most vulnerable.  These rights include voting, civil, employee, human and women.

On the board horizon there seems to be far fewer advocates in urban communities to speak out on issues affecting residents.  Even more striking has been a noticeable loss of mentors, village elders and mothers to assist in the personal growth of the upcoming younger generations.  With this perspective, a number of views have emerged as to why.  In one view, the ongoing shifts in society have resulted in more dysfunction within families and with that advocates have been more focused on those issues.  Another view point has revealed a loss of social consciousness of what it takes to keep communities connected and growing.  Yet another view point highlights a loss in the development of grass root leadership, which has been a hallmark of how neighborhoods have been able to sustain their identity over the decades.      

The loss of community minded advocates has made a significance impact on the quality of life within most neighborhoods.  This loss has led to issues of translation, transition and transformation.  When a community loses it ability pass on the gifts of dialog, culture, skill and heritage from one generation to another, the future of that community will be one of struggle and distance.  At the center of a growing and striving community are persons and organizations that stand ready to assist residents to enjoy a great place in which to live, work and play.    

With too fewer advocates on issues, many urban communities have been adrift and unable to keep those in public office accountable to the growing needs of residents.  What is needed today is a renewed call for people to step up to the plate and become advocates on the issues that are affecting their neighborhood in general and those that affecting the larger community.  Making it all possible is that people need to look beyond their personal agendas and see the world through the lens of those who are suffering in silence.   What do you think?