Has Black America reached a “Tipping Point?”

[iidrg]

Has Black America reached a “Tipping Point?”

Dear Colleagues. I would like to explore the subject of “has Black America reached a tipping point” with you.

According to en.wikipedia.org, The phrase tipping point refers to moment when something unique becomes common. It can also refer to a time when forces convene and one last small occurrence can cause a sudden great change. The proverbial straw that breaks the camel’s back. For example, when Morton Grodzins studied integrating neighborhoods in the early 1960s, he discovered that most of the white families would remain in the neighborhood so long as the comparative number of black families remained very small. But, at a certain point, when "one too many" black families arrived, the remaining white families would move out en masse in a process known as white flight. He called that moment the "tipping point." (en.wikipedia.org 2006)

As witnessed by Tavis Smiley’s recent successful “State of the Black Union” broadcasts and some data acquired by The Ebony Cactus magazine, it seems African Americans are ready for a change that will use new innovative ways of doing business to invigorate Black culture, increase self determination, and provide quantifiable direct and indirect socio economic benefits. Some may think of this tipping point as the fulcrum on a teeter-totter. It is however more complex, more like a plate spinning upon a stick. It could fall in any direction depending on what forces act upon it. Some directions will be of great benefit while others not. Some may have no effect at all.

My question to you is, do you think the above is true? If so why or why not? I look forward to your comments.

Sincerely,
George
http://www.theebonycactus.com

[Thuso]

George,
Based on my observation, and the high volume of activity in the aftermath of the most recent State of Black America - 2006 forum, I believe Black America did reach a tipping point.

As witnessed by Tavis Smiley’s recent successful “State of the Black Union” broadcasts and some data acquired by The Ebony Cactus magazine, it seems African Americans are ready for a change that will use new innovative ways of doing business to invigorate Black culture, increase self determination, and provide quantifiable direct and indirect socio economic benefits.

It remains to be seen if the "quantifiable benefits" materialize for a broad base of Black Americans.

We, at iZania, are looking forward to leading a dialogue among our members to push the ten agenda items contained in the "Covenant with Black America." This call to action is indeed a tipping point, or catalyst for change on multiple fronts.

I believe there is great potential for creating momentum that will result in the creation of "change agents" in many Black communities. The tipping point, as I see it, is that we may have reached a point where WE DRIVE THE CHANGES instead of BEGGING FOR HELP. There is a sufficient critical mass of ecomomic, political, and intellectual power to control our own destiny in many ways.

We are ready for what lies beyond the tipping point.

[iidrg]

Greetings Thuso. I have been meaning for some time to thank you for your thoughtful comments. They are greatly appreciated and carry the conversation along. Also congratulations of the success and professionalism of Izania. I do not know where you find the time, but please keep going!

Sincerely,
G

[Thuso]

George,

Thanks for the encouragement. I thrive on the ideas, and stimulating thoughts and questions from members like you. I must add that you are doing an excellent job at The Ebony Cactus. You are not out there alone!

Keep the faith,