[Gods Ivy]

Originally posted by enigma_AKA
I mean, we should. Part of why we chose to be members of the D9 is to educate and empower. When we perform community service; when we are teaching in the classroom; when we are attending functions for fundraising; when we interact with each other on a regular/situational basis, we should be nurturing seeds of enlightenment. It is my belief that this is done little bit by little bit.

As an aunt and a mentor, I ask my niece and nephew and 'littles' questions and give them guidance on what they should be thinking about, when it comes to their role in the uplifting of our people-"What does this mean to you?", "What do you think of this", not what school do you want to attend but "What do you want to do after college?" etc, etc. (I'm sure someone will say 'college isn't for everyone', but it is for US (on this board) and it should be moreso for our people because the majority of us working/not working low entry jobs isn't for us, either ).

And aside from the youth who will lead us in the next 30-40 years, the adults, who are in positions to think for themselves and become aware have a responsibility to do so. Many of us (D9) engage ourselves in positions that have constant interactions with the community--for instance, two summers ago I worked as a political education provider/registrant, letting any capable person of 18 years or older, their rights, how voting pertains to them, what they can do to change the situation around them to better it for themselves, by any means necessary. I'm not content with just letting Jesse Jackson or anyone else speak for *ME* when I have a voice and when I know *I* matter in this world. But me or any of us knowing is not enough---we must instill this in others. So, the question is not just 'do enough of us know how', but the ones who DO know, 'what are YOU doing to make sure everyone else jumps on the know-boat?'

enigma_AKA

Good point. I think that stragety is great. Approaching our youth and giving them to tools to express themselves and advocate. I believe and practice the samethings. I was a director of a youth program but continue to mentor the students. I could not stay in the environment and work there because I was unhappy but it is vital to their development that we give back and give of our time to them. Great point soror.