Day 3, 26 July 2011

This afternoon, I attended the Youth and College and Male Forum. The purpose is to discuss with male youths, college students, and older African Americans to discuss today’s political and economic challenges. Over 100 males attended. 

The forum was very productive.  The mediator passed around the mic so each person will have a turn to speak their views.

Rules of Engagement:

All discussions must stay professional, no swearing.

Speakers MUST alternate.  One college or high school student may speak after one older adult speaks, and vice versa.

Issues Discussed:

Choices: Immediate Gratification vs Prioritization.  It was a very productive discussion about how to manage money financially and that our choices will determine the rest of our lives.  The youth were very proud of their accomplishments.  Each person had a story about struggle and how they successfully bettered themselves.  The adults quickly applauded their victories, but reminded them, that now it is time to give back to their communities.  People make choices all the time, but fail to realize our decisions affect other people (ie. family and support system).  As one of the elders explained, “We need to stop blaming the MAN.  We need to look at ourselves first.  We have the choice to sell drugs or steal.  We also have the choice to say NO.”

Pay It Forward: Majority of the male youth attending the NAACP conference will be the future leaders of the United States.  They are active in their communities, accepted to prestigious colleges, or currently working in leadership positions.  The older African Americans point out that, their future of the United States depends on what the youth does today.  “Do not mistake American History and African American heritage as two different things.  We were fighting during the War of Independence, Civil War, WWI, WWII, and every other military engagement.  American History and African American History are the same.” 

Individualism:  It is important to be an individual, but don’t forget your culture, grass roots, educational and spiritual foundation.  The reason why our youth are able to accomplish so much is for the sacrifices of their forefathers.  This duty is now being passed to our young adults to help pave the road for future generations.

This productive session reinforced the NAACP purpose, to “Affirm America’s Promise”.