As a group, African Americans have endured innumerable horrors and obstacles in their pursuit of Life, Liberty and Happiness in the United States of America.
People of African descent, recently emancipated from slavery, migrated north to flee the systemic oppression and reoccurring hostility that threatened their existence.
Upon reaching Brooklyn and other parts of New York City, they soon discovered there were few places welcoming their arrival as new residents. Weeksville, a thriving, self sufficient African American community, were one of a few where those migrating from the south were welcomed.
It is in Weeksville, Brooklyn, (currently known as Crown Heights) where you witness an enlightened agenda existing among its inhabitants that was birthed out of necessity, which could easily be termed: SELF PRESERVATION.
in a recent blog post, Just One More Thought on the Reason Why, I used the phrase Enlightened Capitalism, which I defined as…
channelling peoples natural desire to create wealth through enterprising endeavours that improves their quality of life.
Self Preservation may have served as motivation for survival by Weeksville’s residents but it started with the enterprising endeavour of James Weeks to purchase the plot of land in 1838 where the community was founded.
The short video shares a lot about how a community decided there own fate in spite of how hostile the environment that existed during that time.
Become inspired by the story of a community who had even less than we do now. You can learn more about this amazing community at the Weeksville Heritage Center
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Again you have found a “gem” & shared it with us! Here is my issue: Unfortunately, so many of us can’t get past “the foolishness” to unify & make something happen in the present day! I’m so tired of having the “discussion” regarding our coming together! When can we get pass the “foolishness” & get something done! Although there are “cultural… Read More”, “religious”, “ethnic”, “financial” & “social” differences (I could list several more…) – basically we all “look” the same! Yet we continue to behave “poorly” professionally & personally towards each other… Any ideas on how to fix this???
Hey Erika, fact is there may never be a moment where every person of color residing in any given community/neighborhood in the USA will feel a sense of camaraderie or singular purpose in today’s time.
The times have dulled our senses and its more important for people to pursue their own agendas.
I believe all that’s needed is for JUST A FEW OF US to gather and work together. I think a few can accomplish more than the whole of us, while building wealth and improving their lives and others.
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