New Economics for a New Generation of Constructive Collective Action – GDN Exclusive
GDN Contributing Writer, Afi G. Osakwe
There is an issue of great significance to African Americans historically created and maintained by Corporate America from the beginning of the establishment of this country. The history is well-known and not debatable. That issue is Economic Inequality or Economic Injustice, notwithstanding the external political side of the problem. What resolution can Corporate America provide in partnership with Black Consumer America?
The answer for those who see the moral dilemma is sincere action by Corporate America toward Justice. The moral obligation to establish the principles upon which this country was founded that were denied and continue to be denied to people of color, women, and LGBTQ within its operational framework. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are uniquely positioned and qualified to work with Corporate America in developing strategies as redress to our historical inequities.
A model that finally includes constructive collective action
Greater Diversity News, HBCUs; including alumni, students, Black leadership organizations, and other organizations have launched a model that finally includes constructive collective action by corporations and those negatively affected by corporations. Piecemeal placation by individual corporations have only served as ineffective bandages having no sustainable transition to equitable treatment for most marginalized consumers of corporate products and services. Although there are many programs that address diversity and inclusion of Corporate America, there are none as encompassing as “A Call to Colors” (ACtC) and “A Call to Corporate America (ACtCA).”
During the 1930s there were 121 HBCUs. At present, there are 107 colleges in the United States that are identified by the US Department of Education as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Of those 107, three are currently closed, leaving a total of 104 or 101 as cited by some sources. Still, a significant number are in danger of being closed and still others are operating under duress. Why? Financial instability is the most glaring reason. However, our model requests that you, as a corporation, put HBCU supporters in touch with their D&I and political affairs departments with instructions to appropriately respond to our issues.
While political engagement has been successful in attaining social civil rights goals and objectives, those have not translated into a comparable economic realization. There are many reasons for this, not the least of which is corporate influence on government policies designed to enhance corporate profit without having to consider the negative effects to diverse populations which purchase your products and services; and from that pool, also hiring. Suggested items for your action plan are:
- HBCU Endowments
- Student Internships
- Graduate Employment
- Civic Engagement through Non-Profits
- Other
It is with this basic understanding that Wilmington, NC-based Greater Diversity News uses its already established Voter Education, Registration and Mobilization effort to spawn models of Civic Engagement and Diversity & Inclusion utilizing HBCUs, HBCU students, HBCU alumni, fraternities and sororities (Divine 9), National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Alumni Association Foundation, Black civil rights organizations and community leadership toward effective democratic corporate diversity and inclusion. It is this coalition that is now being endorsed and supported by many decision makers throughout America. Become part of The Model for sustainable change. Read this article by Peter Grear of Greater Diversity News.
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