YBR Presents MYOB /// The Black Elite

Monday, February 15, 2010 Written by Alecia Dee /// Find in The Wrap Up

Have you ever heard of the concept the “Talented Tenth”? The concept stems from a piece written by famous black scholar, W.E.B. Dubois, and the basic theory is that the only way to save a race of people and allow them to truly excel is if their most exceptional men (and women) rise to the occasion and use their talents to build up their communities. He focused on the fact that only about one individual among a group of ten would even rise up to be a leader in their community and that we as a race, should do our part to assure that this one person, was adequately trained , educated, and supported in all aspects of life. These aspects included: wealth creation, higher education, and most importantly- social change.

Because we are currently celebrating black history month, the concept of the talented tenth and the “black elite” in general has become a topic of more interest to me. When I was growing up in school, lessons during black history month always included Martin Luther King, Marcus Garvey, Rosa Parks, and Harriet Tubman. Why then, is it that almost fifteen years later young school children are still learning about that same group of people. Of course, we should continue to pay homage to the originators of Civil Rights and those that fought their way through slavery, but who are the new leaders? Who are the talented tenth and black elite of our generation? Is it Nene and Sheree Whitfield? T-Pain and Kanye? Where are those people that will make a stand and use their prominent positions to expand their study of wealth creation, higher education, and most importantly- social change?

While most individuals may define the black elite as a group of people who live within a certain tax bracket, live in certain neighborhoods, and drive certain cars, the true definition that was originally created by Dubois in 1903 goes much deeper beyond that. The black elite should be a group that uses their talents and wealth to empower the black community. Simply being able to dunk a basketball or sign a hefty check to a charitable organization should not automatically make one qualified. We should demand more from ourselves and begin to seek out and groom our leaders. When Martin Luther King was just a preacher in the South, his community sought him out to be their voice. They supported him and assured that they each did their part to further his vision. It’s time that we begin to do the same. As we continue to reflect on our great history this February, ask yourself these questions-- What am I doing with my talents for the black community? What am I doing to support those that are in a position of leadership within the black community? Who will be our new leaders?

“Now is the accepted time, not tomorrow, not some more convenient season. It is today that our best work can be done and not some future day or future year. It is today that we fit ourselves for the greater usefulness of tomorrow. Today is the see time, now are the hours of work, and tomorrow comes the harvest and the playtime.” –W.E.B. Dubois