Comments on: Guest Opinion Editorial by Mr. Ted Smith http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/ Religion, Policy, Activism Tue, 02 Dec 2008 01:40:36 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.6.2 By: Britney http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1485 Britney Tue, 04 Sep 2007 17:14:31 +0000 http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1485 I believe in Jill Carter she says whats you means. She is a tropper, she loves the people and we love her right back. I came to the corner and saw her out there in the wee hours of the morning doesn't that tell you enough. I believe in Jill Carter she says whats you means. She is a tropper, she loves the people and we love her right back. I came to the corner and saw her out there in the wee hours of the morning doesn’t that tell you enough.

]]> By: Nicole http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1466 Nicole Sat, 01 Sep 2007 01:39:45 +0000 http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1466 Bro Haki, I am less cynical than you. I have not researched and read as many books as you, and I may never get the chance. But, what I do know is that black people have been talking about organizing and building wealth for centuries. We need to do that. But, we cannot wait for that miraculous day to come before we do anything. It is possible to have a mayor NOW who stands for the people, the poorest, and the ones who need the most help. I have not given up on Jill Carter becoming mayor. She has said that she would direct money, resources, and opportunities in this city to the people that have been closed out and who need it the most. I believe her and it is something she can do. Making her mayor is something we can do. It's not ALL about money. It's about working and getting people to the polls on September 11 BY ANY MEANS NECESSARY! We don't need money or wealth to do that. We need the will and to stop talking and go to work. If we don't elect Jill Carter for mayor, it will be our cross to bear. Bro Haki, I am less cynical than you. I have not researched and read as many books as you, and I may never get the chance. But, what I do know is that black people have been talking about organizing and building wealth for centuries. We need to do that. But, we cannot wait for that miraculous day to come before we do anything. It is possible to have a mayor NOW who stands for the people, the poorest, and the ones who need the most help. I have not given up on Jill Carter becoming mayor. She has said that she would direct money, resources, and opportunities in this city to the people that have been closed out and who need it the most. I believe her and it is something she can do. Making her mayor is something we can do. It’s not ALL about money. It’s about working and getting people to the polls on September 11 BY ANY MEANS NECESSARY! We don’t need money or wealth to do that. We need the will and to stop talking and go to work. If we don’t elect Jill Carter for mayor, it will be our cross to bear.

]]> By: Bro Haki http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1447 Bro Haki Mon, 27 Aug 2007 16:17:25 +0000 http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1447 I wanted to add this. In terms of being known and popular there must in fact be "some" levels of popularity though there also must be Community Outreach and Networking. If I may say this It is my experiences in terms of some of the operations that I have conducted over the years in terms of Networking i.e. showing up on the scene to being accounted for that folk in and around Baltimore do know enough about me or they should. I say they should, If they are serious about Self Development, Empowerment, Uplifting self and community more than likely they've come across me somewhere. It is my understanding that many people are "WASTING" alot of valueable time and money walking around and passing out campaign literature in a divided race. Everyone's in each others camp which is going to dilute the force and cause many people to tone down there message in order to attract more white voters, white money or not to offend white folk. This is why whoever win they feel as though they have to capitulate to white power since there will be some black supporters of the various candidates that are going to be bitter and sore losers and not want to work with whoever the black mayor will be. This "Greed", "Arrogance" and "Selfishness" on some folk parts. There is no need for Commentary on who if any guilty parties there may be. Everyone seems to say they are the best for the job. According to the Radio one poll this morning Dr. Bundley seems to have had more Radio One listener support. I don't know what this means for the other candidates though I do know that whoever it is they are going to be more cordial. My studies of Black Mayors throughout history comes from several books that can be found at Everyone's Place. There are three that thoroughly document the history of Black Mayor's and their impact. In all the Black Working Class and Poor Blacks do not have nothing coming whoever is in office. Some will fight harder than others though the reality is when I see "Broke" black persons spending time passing out flyers for a particular candidate I think what a waste of time and energy. We have put too much energy into Campaigns and this Campaign particular. Do not want to sound like a spoiler or spoiled sport for those that like the petty attention or the misinformed notion of progress that a so called Black Mayor may mean for the masses. It is an act of futility. Many do not have the scholastic fighting spirit. Some might think that having a Managerial Negro as the Mayor is good. What about Wealth? Ownership? Real Estate? If anyone wants to teach me anything TEACH ME THAT? Teach me how as they are Candidates that they are going to use their influence and capital to build institutions for Black Empowerment. Right now many/most of the current black institutions are just dead, invisible or silent. I'm bringing a broader analysis, A more well thought out approach. It saddens me to see "Broke" Black Activists spending time talking too much about elections. We do not get nothing out of the process except for a pledge for more police. We all have our own Economic interest, is that the best thing we can do. Go to school so we can get a job working for white folk. This is what many Black Candidates teach black people and I have to go behind folk that do not read "IMPORTANT" check this out, One older person in one Campaigns has not even read Ron Walters book, Black Interest/Conservative Public Policy. Now, I do not mean any harm, but Ron Walters just happens to be one of if not thee most informed black Political Analysis well sought after. This is the kind of people we have running around talking about voting. I thank Bro Heber for asking the question to the City Council President about Contracts at Empowerment Temple. The question was "Will or is there any way to be sure that the contracts given by the MBE process do not all go to persons that donated money to her Campaign? Bro Heber this is how folk tend to play the game. It may not be official though CREAM Cash Rules Everything Around Them. Can we all say "K" Street? Can we say Abramoff? I wanted to add this. In terms of being known and popular there must in fact be “some” levels of popularity though there also must be Community Outreach and Networking. If I may say this It is my experiences in terms of some of the operations that I have conducted over the years in terms of Networking i.e. showing up on the scene to being accounted for that folk in and around Baltimore do know enough about me or they should. I say they should, If they are serious about Self Development, Empowerment, Uplifting self and community more than likely they’ve come across me somewhere. It is my understanding that many people are “WASTING” alot of valueable time and money walking around and passing out campaign literature in a divided race. Everyone’s in each others camp which is going to dilute the force and cause many people to tone down there message in order to attract more white voters, white money or not to offend white folk. This is why whoever win they feel as though they have to capitulate to white power since there will be some black supporters of the various candidates that are going to be bitter and sore losers and not want to work with whoever the black mayor will be. This “Greed”, “Arrogance” and “Selfishness” on some folk parts. There is no need for Commentary on who if any guilty parties there may be. Everyone seems to say they are the best for the job. According to the Radio one poll this morning Dr. Bundley seems to have had more Radio One listener support. I don’t know what this means for the other candidates though I do know that whoever it is they are going to be more cordial. My studies of Black Mayors throughout history comes from several books that can be found at Everyone’s Place. There are three that thoroughly document the history of Black Mayor’s and their impact. In all the Black Working Class and Poor Blacks do not have nothing coming whoever is in office. Some will fight harder than others though the reality is when I see “Broke” black persons spending time passing out flyers for a particular candidate I think what a waste of time and energy. We have put too much energy into Campaigns and this Campaign particular. Do not want to sound like a spoiler or spoiled sport for those that like the petty attention or the misinformed notion of progress that a so called Black Mayor may mean for the masses. It is an act of futility. Many do not have the scholastic fighting spirit. Some might think that having a Managerial Negro as the Mayor is good. What about Wealth? Ownership? Real Estate? If anyone wants to teach me anything TEACH ME THAT? Teach me how as they are Candidates that they are going to use their influence and capital to build institutions for Black Empowerment. Right now many/most of the current black institutions are just dead, invisible or silent. I’m bringing a broader analysis, A more well thought out approach. It saddens me to see “Broke” Black Activists spending time talking too much about elections. We do not get nothing out of the process except for a pledge for more police. We all have our own Economic interest, is that the best thing we can do. Go to school so we can get a job working for white folk. This is what many Black Candidates teach black people and I have to go behind folk that do not read “IMPORTANT” check this out, One older person in one Campaigns has not even read Ron Walters book, Black Interest/Conservative Public Policy. Now, I do not mean any harm, but Ron Walters just happens to be one of if not thee most informed black Political Analysis well sought after. This is the kind of people we have running around talking about voting. I thank Bro Heber for asking the question to the City Council President about Contracts at Empowerment Temple. The question was “Will or is there any way to be sure that the contracts given by the MBE process do not all go to persons that donated money to her Campaign? Bro Heber this is how folk tend to play the game. It may not be official though CREAM Cash Rules Everything Around Them. Can we all say “K” Street? Can we say Abramoff?

]]> By: Bro Haki http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1446 Bro Haki Mon, 27 Aug 2007 15:13:27 +0000 http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1446 Also, Part of it is age as well as Capital. Who can finance their voices. Sometimes older folk do not get the necessary attention as others. This is why I will and need to have my own or a "True Collective" radio show for those that want to reach the masses of our people. This is what I'm moving towards on Radio one. Also, Part of it is age as well as Capital. Who can finance their voices. Sometimes older folk do not get the necessary attention as others. This is why I will and need to have my own or a “True Collective” radio show for those that want to reach the masses of our people. This is what I’m moving towards on Radio one.

]]> By: Bro Haki http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1445 Bro Haki Mon, 27 Aug 2007 15:10:24 +0000 http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1445 Certainly Bro Genius Movement, I appreciate your insights. You are certainly on point on many of your analysis. This is why I have to expand the operations of The Think Tank as well as Soulvivazs. Many of these are close allies so I wouldn't want to sound as if I'm dissing anyone though sometimes we do not as you expressed give other persons opportunities that rightfully need to be heard. This is why I'm going to have this initial meeting at Everyone's Place. I've been organizing in D.C. as well as in Prince George's County where black folk are located. Now it is time for me to bring this analysis back to Bmore. It is interesting that no one is known outside of Baltimore. I do not even tell people that I'm going to Prince George's or to D.C. well a few people do go down at times which is fine, though we need some folk studying in the Libraries of Congess. This takes a think tank and it takes Finances to finances these progress movements. My Black Empowerment Post Election "Detox" Business Opportunity Briefing will be just that a True Solution to both of these organizations and for all Thinking Leaders. I've called out since this in my Textbook research and analysis is the BEST Crime Prevention strategy. Of course we have to fight on various fronts though we must be able to Maximally give people Business/Employment Options. As you spoke of Personality Cults this is why I have to preach againsts it. Most organizations i.e. individuals do not study organizations and organizing. There are only a few serious Organizers that are seeking out best practices. This is why Haki Madhubuti's book Clash of the Races and The Art of Leadership comes in. Oba T. Shaka who Solvivaz did bring here I hope that folk trully read his book it would of course create the dailogue about developing people. We must neutralize this "Charasmatic" leadership. Of course we can be Charismatic though we have to be uplifting and teaching other leaders to be empowered. My efforts have stepped up. I hope to have a radio program myself in the next few months and a few other outreach operations. Thanks Bro Heber for this site. We all need to speak more. Certainly Bro Genius Movement, I appreciate your insights. You are certainly on point on many of your analysis. This is why I have to expand the operations of The Think Tank as well as Soulvivazs. Many of these are close allies so I wouldn’t want to sound as if I’m dissing anyone though sometimes we do not as you expressed give other persons opportunities that rightfully need to be heard. This is why I’m going to have this initial meeting at Everyone’s Place. I’ve been organizing in D.C. as well as in Prince George’s County where black folk are located. Now it is time for me to bring this analysis back to Bmore. It is interesting that no one is known outside of Baltimore. I do not even tell people that I’m going to Prince George’s or to D.C. well a few people do go down at times which is fine, though we need some folk studying in the Libraries of Congess. This takes a think tank and it takes Finances to finances these progress movements. My Black Empowerment Post Election “Detox” Business Opportunity Briefing will be just that a True Solution to both of these organizations and for all Thinking Leaders. I’ve called out since this in my Textbook research and analysis is the BEST Crime Prevention strategy. Of course we have to fight on various fronts though we must be able to Maximally give people Business/Employment Options. As you spoke of Personality Cults this is why I have to preach againsts it. Most organizations i.e. individuals do not study organizations and organizing. There are only a few serious Organizers that are seeking out best practices. This is why Haki Madhubuti’s book Clash of the Races and The Art of Leadership comes in. Oba T. Shaka who Solvivaz did bring here I hope that folk trully read his book it would of course create the dailogue about developing people. We must neutralize this “Charasmatic” leadership. Of course we can be Charismatic though we have to be uplifting and teaching other leaders to be empowered. My efforts have stepped up. I hope to have a radio program myself in the next few months and a few other outreach operations. Thanks Bro Heber for this site. We all need to speak more.

]]> By: geniusmovement http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1433 geniusmovement Sat, 25 Aug 2007 00:36:14 +0000 http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1433 Bro. Haki, your analysis is very wise. I think healthy, tough, respectful debate to move our people forward is helpful. Please do not misconstrue this attempt for disrespect. My attempt was to speak to what I see in the conscious community as a whole - not you individually. I respect the work that you have done through the years. Hopefully, I will be working with you after the election and we can collectively work to move our people forward. You made a point about personality cult that I think is interesting. I have never seen any organization that did not have a personality cult. At the Think Tank, there seems to be a personality cult around Darren Muhammad (listen to how someone is spoken of if they love black people but happen to disagree with him) and to a lesser extent David Johnson. At Solvivaz, there is a personality cult around Jabari. The Nation of Islam does great work, but there is a tremendous personality cult. Most black churches have a cult of personality for the pastors in charge that is simply disgusting. I want the name of a church that does not have a cult of personality; every church that I went to as a child had one. I am highly respected among a cadre of young people (because I have touched their lives). I definitely have to fight against their attempts to put me on a pedestal. However, I am one of groups of unknown workers that affect many lives within the city. You do not know about us. We do not share with everybody what we do, but we do it anyway. The young people around me see the people with the loudest voices getting the respect, while some folks that quietly act are not heard. I have been in black nationalist circles, and I do not think like any of them (or even close). Some opinions are simply not heard. I think it is very valuable to engage young people. I have built up respect amongst young people by being accountable to them. The young (even though so many put them down) can see through you if you are not real. I think that in the conscious community we need to engage the young people seriously. I think that we need to also seriously engage the unconscious community. I respect Jill Carter, because I see a lot of these traits within Jill Carter. However, there are unknown others that do the same and hopefully there will be enough someday to cut the homicide rate and the dropout rate. I think that young people should be listened to and have valuable insights to bring to the discussion (THEY ARE NOT LISTENED TO). I am an educator within the BELLY of the BEAST, risking my job to PROPERLY educate my people. I do not go along with the powers that be, and receive hell for it. I mentor young people, raising many as my own. There are others that do the same. I do not ever hear these voices at the discussion. I feel like that if you are an unknown grassroots worker - not shouting to everyone what you do - then you are not listened to. I think that there are other voices within the community - those not normally listened to - that need to be considered. On the one hand, you say do not build a cult of personality, but too often we do not listen to people without titles. Darren Muhammad or David Johnson (titles within the Think Tank), Jabari (Solvivaz title), Carlos Muhammad (title), Pastor (title), Bishop (everybody wants the bigger title) - when are we going to listen to people without titles? Furthermore, when are their opinions going to add to the discussion? With that being said, Bro. Haki, I will support your event after the mayoral election. I should have supported your events with Matah, and I will work to support your efforts in the future. On the other hand, I would like to be supported in my efforts as well. Bro. Haki, your analysis is very wise. I think healthy, tough, respectful debate to move our people forward is helpful. Please do not misconstrue this attempt for disrespect. My attempt was to speak to what I see in the conscious community as a whole - not you individually. I respect the work that you have done through the years. Hopefully, I will be working with you after the election and we can collectively work to move our people forward. You made a point about personality cult that I think is interesting. I have never seen any organization that did not have a personality cult. At the Think Tank, there seems to be a personality cult around Darren Muhammad (listen to how someone is spoken of if they love black people but happen to disagree with him) and to a lesser extent David Johnson. At Solvivaz, there is a personality cult around Jabari. The Nation of Islam does great work, but there is a tremendous personality cult. Most black churches have a cult of personality for the pastors in charge that is simply disgusting. I want the name of a church that does not have a cult of personality; every church that I went to as a child had one. I am highly respected among a cadre of young people (because I have touched their lives). I definitely have to fight against their attempts to put me on a pedestal. However, I am one of groups of unknown workers that affect many lives within the city. You do not know about us. We do not share with everybody what we do, but we do it anyway. The young people around me see the people with the loudest voices getting the respect, while some folks that quietly act are not heard. I have been in black nationalist circles, and I do not think like any of them (or even close). Some opinions are simply not heard. I think it is very valuable to engage young people. I have built up respect amongst young people by being accountable to them. The young (even though so many put them down) can see through you if you are not real. I think that in the conscious community we need to engage the young people seriously. I think that we need to also seriously engage the unconscious community. I respect Jill Carter, because I see a lot of these traits within Jill Carter. However, there are unknown others that do the same and hopefully there will be enough someday to cut the homicide rate and the dropout rate. I think that young people should be listened to and have valuable insights to bring to the discussion (THEY ARE NOT LISTENED TO). I am an educator within the BELLY of the BEAST, risking my job to PROPERLY educate my people. I do not go along with the powers that be, and receive hell for it. I mentor young people, raising many as my own. There are others that do the same. I do not ever hear these voices at the discussion. I feel like that if you are an unknown grassroots worker - not shouting to everyone what you do - then you are not listened to. I think that there are other voices within the community - those not normally listened to - that need to be considered. On the one hand, you say do not build a cult of personality, but too often we do not listen to people without titles. Darren Muhammad or David Johnson (titles within the Think Tank), Jabari (Solvivaz title), Carlos Muhammad (title), Pastor (title), Bishop (everybody wants the bigger title) - when are we going to listen to people without titles? Furthermore, when are their opinions going to add to the discussion? With that being said, Bro. Haki, I will support your event after the mayoral election. I should have supported your events with Matah, and I will work to support your efforts in the future. On the other hand, I would like to be supported in my efforts as well.

]]> By: asia http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1432 asia Fri, 24 Aug 2007 23:33:51 +0000 http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1432 good and young bro. cedric keep it up and bro. ted continue in the faith people need u in the world this goin become "tubman city" good and young bro. cedric keep it up and bro. ted continue in the faith people need u in the world this goin become “tubman city”

]]> By: Heber Brown, III http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1427 Heber Brown, III Fri, 24 Aug 2007 16:33:50 +0000 http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1427 Well said as usual, Bro. Haki! I couldn't agree with you more about fighting the temptation to "build personality cults". THE CREATOR has placed a leader in each of us and we'll make greater strides working together. (We'll also be more difficult to defeat) I'll see you on the 3rd and look forward to more information about your event. Well said as usual, Bro. Haki! I couldn’t agree with you more about fighting the temptation to “build personality cults”. THE CREATOR has placed a leader in each of us and we’ll make greater strides working together. (We’ll also be more difficult to defeat)

I’ll see you on the 3rd and look forward to more information about your event.

]]> By: Bro Haki http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1426 Bro Haki Fri, 24 Aug 2007 15:59:12 +0000 http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1426 Bro Heber, If I may, I have been involved with several Cooperative Economic Movements, particularly MATAH of which NO so called progressives after about two to three years of pushing this Cooperative many folk did not jump on board including the Progressive Superstars in Baltimore. Next, There needs to be some serious dailouge with some folk that call themselves Socialists or Progressive Democrats. I've been through that. About 6-7 years ago I was actively down with the Uhuru Movement. If anyone would like to know about a REAL Revolutionary group I say find out about the UHURU Movement. Many folk in Baltimore i.e. Tubman City are not connecting to Brothers and Sista's outside of Baltimore. I haven't heard anyone speak of the Malcolm X Grass Roots Movement, Uhuru, December 12th. What I theorize is that sometimes folk put out labels such as Communism, but they practice Capitalism and only wish to EXPLOIT the Black community they are called BLACK POWER PIMPS. Cedric, Ted or Heber do you know any Black Power Pimps in Baltimore??? We'll save that discussion for later. There needs to be a self reliant, self determination Movement. I've heard many "Progressive" organizations cry the evils of Capitalism while begging for money from Soros or their 501C3. This is a license to beg. Brother Ted can speak for himself and I do appreciate his work. I think of course if he, yourself or Heber were doing something let the community know. There are various ways to let communities know. I say if anyone wants to reach me about anything I say leave a note at Everyone's Place or now on this forum, where I spend time studying and gathering intel. If I may also add I'm assuming I will see all of you at Jill Carter's event on the 3rd of September??? I have lent my support, experience and wisdom to Del Carter to whatever degree I thought would be exceptable to her. I believe much more can be done. I've studied politics and have participated in several persons Campaigns over the years and have worked on Del Carter's first Campaign with Mr. Robert Clay so I'm saying I've been around. As far as my statement about getting hit over the head. I'm saying this we better be careful. During the 60's the Black Panther Party had a problem with the Lumpen i.e. the Criminal Element. We have to do something quick about the Gangsta, Thuggish or Lumpen Tendencies of several of our brotha's and sista's. I'm saying I read stories of Ministers who were beat up from their mentee's or persons in their programs. I'm saying you learn overtime how to balance between ones own safety as well as building, organizing and teaching. Some folk due to various means i.e. alcohol, poverty, quality of water, drugs have violent tendencies I say we better adopt a proper Crime Prevention plan along with an Economic Development Plan. Bro Heber the Uhuru Platform said "We demand a Policy of Economic Development vice Police Containment". Now I guess Economic Development only means when one individual is being Economic Empowerment. Many folk had an inaccurate definition of Economic Development such as Kwame Toure of which many people study. Kwame Toure though insightful was quite limited. Many Black Power advocates are adherrants to his vision. I've grown past his theories. I do not disrespect it I just recognize his limitations and analysis. Bro. Heber I think the term you are speaking of is "Bourgiesie Nationalists". This was spoken of by Dr. Amos Wilson as well as Oba T Shaka and I would encourage everyone reading this if you are serious about Organizing Black people to read and own Blueprint to Black Power as well as Art of Leadership by Oba T. Shaka. Even in Mualanga Karenga's "Intro to Black Studies book he discussed the theory of moving from Capitalism, to Cooperative Economics to Socialism. Now I believe that Black folk can not be personally Economic Dysfunctional, Demoralized, Poverty Induced, Consumer oriented, petty materialistic and irresponsible. In closing, We shouldn't want to build any Personality Cults as in some Black Nationalist Muslim groups i.e. can not study anything or speak outside of the one great speaker and thinker thinks and says. Oba T. Shaka in Art of Leadership speaks of the need to develop organizations that develop people and yes he does speak of living amongst the people to know the peoples struggles. Also, I will be having a Black Empowerment Post Election "Detox" Business Opportunity Dailogue. I will have flyers at the Jill Carter event with more info. the day after the election at Everyone's Place 1356 W. North Ave. Bro Heber, If I may, I have been involved with several Cooperative Economic Movements, particularly MATAH of which NO so called progressives after about two to three years of pushing this Cooperative many folk did not jump on board including the Progressive Superstars in Baltimore. Next, There needs to be some serious dailouge with some folk that call themselves Socialists or Progressive Democrats. I’ve been through that. About 6-7 years ago I was actively down with the Uhuru Movement. If anyone would like to know about a REAL Revolutionary group I say find out about the UHURU Movement. Many folk in Baltimore i.e. Tubman City are not connecting to Brothers and Sista’s outside of Baltimore. I haven’t heard anyone speak of the Malcolm X Grass Roots Movement, Uhuru, December 12th. What I theorize is that sometimes folk put out labels such as Communism, but they practice Capitalism and only wish to EXPLOIT the Black community they are called BLACK POWER PIMPS. Cedric, Ted or Heber do you know any Black Power Pimps in Baltimore??? We’ll save that discussion for later. There needs to be a self reliant, self determination Movement. I’ve heard many “Progressive” organizations cry the evils of Capitalism while begging for money from Soros or their 501C3. This is a license to beg. Brother Ted can speak for himself and I do appreciate his work. I think of course if he, yourself or Heber were doing something let the community know. There are various ways to let communities know. I say if anyone wants to reach me about anything I say leave a note at Everyone’s Place or now on this forum, where I spend time studying and gathering intel. If I may also add I’m assuming I will see all of you at Jill Carter’s event on the 3rd of September??? I have lent my support, experience and wisdom to Del Carter to whatever degree I thought would be exceptable to her. I believe much more can be done. I’ve studied politics and have participated in several persons Campaigns over the years and have worked on Del Carter’s first Campaign with Mr. Robert Clay so I’m saying I’ve been around.

As far as my statement about getting hit over the head. I’m saying this we better be careful. During the 60’s the Black Panther Party had a problem with the Lumpen i.e. the Criminal Element. We have to do something quick about the Gangsta, Thuggish or Lumpen Tendencies of several of our brotha’s and sista’s. I’m saying I read stories of Ministers who were beat up from their mentee’s or persons in their programs. I’m saying you learn overtime how to balance between ones own safety as well as building, organizing and teaching. Some folk due to various means i.e. alcohol, poverty, quality of water, drugs have violent tendencies I say we better adopt a proper Crime Prevention plan along with an Economic Development Plan. Bro Heber the Uhuru Platform said “We demand a Policy of Economic Development vice Police Containment”. Now I guess Economic Development only means when one individual is being Economic Empowerment. Many folk had an inaccurate definition of Economic Development such as Kwame Toure of which many people study. Kwame Toure though insightful was quite limited. Many Black Power advocates are adherrants to his vision. I’ve grown past his theories. I do not disrespect it I just recognize his limitations and analysis. Bro. Heber I think the term you are speaking of is “Bourgiesie Nationalists”. This was spoken of by Dr. Amos Wilson as well as Oba T Shaka and I would encourage everyone reading this if you are serious about Organizing Black people to read and own Blueprint to Black Power as well as Art of Leadership by Oba T. Shaka.
Even in Mualanga Karenga’s “Intro to Black Studies book he discussed the theory of moving from Capitalism, to Cooperative Economics to Socialism. Now I believe that Black folk can not be personally Economic Dysfunctional, Demoralized, Poverty Induced, Consumer oriented, petty materialistic and irresponsible.

In closing, We shouldn’t want to build any Personality Cults as in some Black Nationalist Muslim groups i.e. can not study anything or speak outside of the one great speaker and thinker thinks and says. Oba T. Shaka in Art of Leadership speaks of the need to develop organizations that develop people and yes he does speak of living amongst the people to know the peoples struggles.

Also, I will be having a Black Empowerment Post Election “Detox” Business Opportunity Dailogue. I will have flyers at the Jill Carter event with more info. the day after the election at Everyone’s Place 1356 W. North Ave.

]]> By: Heber Brown, III http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1424 Heber Brown, III Fri, 24 Aug 2007 14:15:25 +0000 http://faithinactiononline.com/2007/08/20/guest-opinion-editorial-by-mr-ted-smith/#comment-1424 Bro. Haki - of course your passion and commitment to Afrikan people is always appreciated. You are a true soldier who contributes much in the way of expressing the need for economic empowerment "Afrika" style - not capitalism - but cooperative economics. Bro. Genius Movement - another true soldier who recognizes the urgency of the times. I enjoy serving alongside you and look forward to much more troublemaking before the day of our crucifixion. Bro. Cedric - The hope of our people! Continue young brother in the struggle for liberation and social justice. The Ancestors (known and unknown) are with you and God will help to connect you to your comrades on the battlefield. John B. - I couldn't agree more. Jill Carter is a exemplary leader and public servant with a history and trackrecord of standing up for the oppressed and marginalized. And of course Sista Nicole - continuing in the legacy of Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Assata Shakur, Ella Baker, Angela Davis etc. etc...stay strong sista - you have strong brothers beside you in battle. Bro. Haki - of course your passion and commitment to Afrikan people is always appreciated. You are a true soldier who contributes much in the way of expressing the need for economic empowerment “Afrika” style - not capitalism - but cooperative economics.

Bro. Genius Movement - another true soldier who recognizes the urgency of the times. I enjoy serving alongside you and look forward to much more troublemaking before the day of our crucifixion.

Bro. Cedric - The hope of our people! Continue young brother in the struggle for liberation and social justice. The Ancestors (known and unknown) are with you and God will help to connect you to your comrades on the battlefield.

John B. - I couldn’t agree more. Jill Carter is a exemplary leader and public servant with a history and trackrecord of standing up for the oppressed and marginalized.

And of course Sista Nicole - continuing in the legacy of Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Assata Shakur, Ella Baker, Angela Davis etc. etc…stay strong sista - you have strong brothers beside you in battle.

]]>