Harambee at Harvard Divinity candid discussion about what it is, and what it means within the black community.
On Friday October 28, 2005 members of Harambee at Harvard Divinity got together for a candid discussion about a complex issue in the black community, “Selling out.” In an informal and cozy environment off campus (at the house of the vice president, Renita Moore) several members wrestled with the issue, proposed solutions, and ate good food. Here are the highlights…
The discussion began with the basics- the attempt to define selling out. From there the topics ranged from a self reflective perspective asking the question whether we were sellouts, who are sell outs in general, the politics surrounding interracial dating and being seen as a sell out, the mega-church dynamic, and issues of class.
Also issues about tensions surrounding nationality, African Americans, and immigrants of African descent were brought to the table. The discussion was thick and deep. Without being said, all communities have issues. This discussion series gave the opportunity to discuss them in depth and offer suggestions.
But the discussion does not end there…it continues on this blog what do you think?
Harambee, let’s pull together.
2 comments:
I think you're all sellouts, look how far ya'll are from the black community in Boston!
I think the "sell-out" issue is a complicated one but my initial reaction is that we have to consider seriously dropping all of the name calling associated with our struggle as people of African Descent to be united in our diversity. That includes calling each other "uncle toms" and "oreos", etc. It's important that we think critically and discuss meaningfully issues of oppression, class, skin-tone and other things that divide the black community, but we should do so in a spirit of geniune love for each other and recognition of the need for healing and empowerment. I liked the photos, looks like people were really into that discussion.
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