I'm not quite ready to offer an opinion about Charles Blow’s call for large numbers of Black citizens to move to the South from the North to move forward a political change and position that would shift the country to the left because of one simple fact: I've yet to read it.
In a book review by NPR'S Hope Wabuke, Charles Blow writes in "The Devil You Know: The Black Power Manifesto, "The proposition is simple. As many Black descendants of the Great Migration as possible should return to the South from which their ancestors fled." She says that by concentrating their political power in key Southern cities, "his position is that Blacks can affect change."
Over the years, my husband and I have traveled to Selma to see family and to attend the Bridge Crossing Jubilee that recognizes the annual celebration and remembrance of the Voting Rights Movement, Bloody Sunday, and the Selma to Montgomery march. This year's event has gone virtual and global, and may insight some to thinking as Don and I have after each visit, about moving further South. However, to date, we've maintained our residence. I
invite you to join me in reading The Devil You Know: The Black Power Manifesto. I will begin on Sunday, February 28. I imagine thoughts of why we should return to the South might stir new conversations, perusing real estate sites, and considering our retirement that is not too far into the future.
Looking forward,
Janine
Selma, Bridge Crossing - I was there in 2015 when President Barack Obama was the guest speaker. My life is forever changed.
March 2015 - I was there - somewhere between the last traffic light you can see and the green awning on the right side. The South has its privileges.