You may be thinking that it’s redundant to mention why Black people should stand up for their rights. Of course, every community and human being should have the same rights as other citizens regardless of their skin color or gender.
Well, the purpose of this short article is simply to highlight why it’s necessary to continue to make an active effort toward eliminating racial injustice. Progress doesn’t simply happen for the sake of it. Instead, it comes through the dedication and courage of the people who are fighting to achieve it.
Therefore, in this piece, we’ll highlight some stories and words said by prominent Black people before us to help give us the push we need to be there for our community and grow toward a more peaceful and equal future.
Why Black People Should Stand Up for their Rights
Despite the significant progress Black people have made toward striving for equality in American society in the past centuries, there is still evidence for prevalent injustices. In June 2020, there were worldwide Black Lives Matter protests that were focused on the racial killing of African American citizens in the United States by law enforcement and civilians (particularly the cause of Ahmaud Arbery).
Of course, positive change won’t come overnight, and standalone events alone won’t suffice either. That’s not to say that they don’t have their place in highlighting struggle and injustice, but they are not a long-term solution.
Well, that is precisely why people, whether they are African American or not, must consistently make an active effort to correct the injustices. If you want to also be an active member in bringing that change, you don’t have to make giant strides.
Martin Luther King Jr. said it best that if you can’t fly, you can run, and if not that, simply walk or crawl—the idea was to just keep moving forward. So, even small efforts make a difference, and as long as you’re doing that, you’re making progress. Slow progress is still progress.
At the same time, the legendary civil rights activist talked about how important it is for the oppressed, i.e., marginalized communities, to demand their rights because they won’t be given to them. The great Malcolm X also discussed how justice, equality, or freedom must be taken. It’s never given. Therefore, reiterating the importance of making a consistent effort.
Taking Courage and Inspiration from Heroes of the Past
If you ever feel like you’re struggling to move forward, you can look into the past for courage and inspiration. Recently, a book published by a Black author, Philip Franklin, highlights the stories of several black inventors that created inventions that were patented.
Some designs were revolutionary and laid the foundation of various modern designs. Therefore, if you ever need inspiration or want to be reminded why Black people should stand up for their rights, you can go through history.
Buy the book African American Inventor Package to learn about the unsung black inventors in history.