Within the Black diaspora, a common adage prevails: “With every new level, new challenges arise.” We remain susceptible to these challenges, just like anyone else.
While we may view confronting negative assumptions and debunking false narratives as time-consuming, there are instances where it becomes essential; this is particularly true when we anticipate obstacles that could undermine the substantial effort invested in advancing our goals.
El Paso’s Black community is a resilient and powerful force. We have contributed to the vibrant history here on the border for years. We must remain steadfast and take action to prevent any attempts, both internal and external, to discredit or disrespect our cultural heritage and the leaders who have paved the way for us.
In our journey of ascending to higher heights, vigilance against negativity is paramount. Negativity can erode our confidence and hinder progress. We must guard our minds to rise effectively, filtering out pessimism and doubt – regardless of where they originate. Maintaining a positive mindset contributes to resilience and fuels ambition. Embracing challenges with optimism enables us to reach greater heights. As we ascend, let us remember that negativity is a weight we can discard, allowing us to soar higher and achieve our goals with unwavering determination.
In addition, despite facing immense challenges such as systemic racism and inequality, the Black community has persevered. Our present and past leaders have worked tirelessly to promote progress, justice, and empowerment. We should be cautious of those seeking to undermine our accomplishments while addressing internal issues that could harm our cultural heritage.
Our strength lies not only in our unity but also in our collective intelligence. We must exercise critical thinking and discernment to identify genuine allies while addressing those within our community who engage in actions that could harm our culture.
We must continue to honor and celebrate our rich heritage, stand united against any forms of disrespect, and strive to tackle internal issues constructively for the betterment of our community. By doing so, we can thwart any attempts to belittle our community and move towards a future marked by progress, equality, and realizing our full potential.
Monica is the founder and publisher of Black El Paso Voice. She is an advocate fighting against racism and embracing positive community involvement. She is a lover of God, Puerto Rican cuisine, and the greatest defender of her family. She also enjoy House Music and swears it’s the best music on the planet!