I grew up in the basement of America’s promise… a small, segregated community in the upper state of South Carolina. We did not have the privilege of prosperity, and power enjoyed by those of the top floor of America. Our wealth, our blessings, in the basement, existed in relationships, shared struggle and shared life.
The hypocrisies, absurdities, and cruelties of a Jim Crow culture was the context I faced. But I grew up with people who, no matter the hardships or the struggles, managed to care for and love each other. We were not perfect people. But we knew we belonged to each other and whatever happened with one of us belonged to all of us. I learned that my actions did not only reap benefit or consequences for me, but for those around me who I recognized as kin.
Between the boundaries of South Liberty Street, East Hampton, Converse Street and Park Avenue, a vibrant, hopeful, loving people existed. We created our own city – the Southside of Spartanburg, South Carolina. There were restaurants, a movie theatre, and a medical facility that cared for most of our health needs. For more serious ailments, we were assigned to the Spartanburg General Colored Hospital where I was born. My community taught me about Cooperative Economics. It was essential to our survival as a people.
Ujamaa (cooperative economics) is the practice of shared social wealth and the work necessary to achieve it. Ujamaa is in essence kinship. It also promotes self-reliance as we build, strengthen and control the economics of our own community. Ujamaa suggests that we must seize and maintain initiative in all that is ours. It also stresses generosity especially toward those who are vulnerable and marginalized.
As we face the challenging times before us, we must ask ourselves
- Who am I? Whose am I?
- To whom am I accountable?
- With whom do I share resources?
- Am I responsive to those who are marginalized and impoverished?
- Do I support businesses and corporations whose practices and policies would destroy the principles I believe in?
If we are serious about creating a society that is just, humane and equitable, then I believe these questions matter as we consider… What Now?