✊🏽 Uplifting From Within

Reflections on the Power of Community

I have spent most of my life surrounded by the Black community—listening, learning, and witnessing its beauty, brilliance, and struggle. Through friendships, family, and years in arts and culture, I’ve heard the stories, felt the pain, and seen the triumphs.

Over time, one message has stayed with me: real change grows strongest when it starts from within.

Yes, racism and inequality still exist; I’ve seen both subtle and open discrimination, and the damage it can do. But alongside those realities, I’ve also witnessed incredible power—communities creating their own opportunities, small businesses thriving, young leaders stepping forward, and artists telling stories that heal and unite.

And that’s what I wish to encourage more of: internal strength, collaboration, and pride.

This isn’t about blame; it’s about belief—belief in the capacity of a people who have endured and created so much to continue building on their own foundation.

The Million Man March was one of those moments that showed what could happen when purpose met unity. Its call for responsibility, family, faith, and self-determination is still relevant today.

Imagine if that same energy reached every block, school, and business—if the spirit of “we can lift ourselves” became louder than the noise that divides.

The world needs to see more of that. More community leadership. More support for local businesses. More celebration of success stories. More young people growing up believing in the power of their own.

Because when a community invests in itself, it shows the world what real progress looks like. 🌻