The fourth day of Kwanzaa observes Ujama, cooperative economics, defined as building and
maintaining our own stores, shops, and other businesses, and to profit from them
together.(Source: The Official Kwanzaa Website) African Americans have been practicing Ujama since our arrival in this country. Despite our limited resources, African Americans have invested in our communities, thus making our nation stronger. Frederick Douglass wrote, "We must
become valuable to society in other departments of industry than those
servile ones from which we are rapidly being excluded. We must show that
we can do as well as be; to this end we must learn trades."(Source: The Root). To that end, African Americans have found their place not only as business owners, but as major developers of their respective communities and the country as a whole.
Not sure of you practice Ujama? Think of the words "Made in America". If you regularly purchase goods that are American made, then you practice Ujama! Buying books at a family owned bookstore, supporting a locally owned franchise or investing in an American built car are also prime examples of Ujama. President Obama succeeded in Ujama by investing in the American auto industry, creating new opportunities in growth and competition in the market, enabling our auto makers to compete on a global level once again.
If you would like to support your locally owned businesses, start with your own neighborhood. You'll be surprised at all the wonderful things businesses in your community are able to offer you.
Your task for today (weather permitting): Instead of driving out to your regular mega store, take a moment to visit that little shop your drive past everyday. Introduce yourself and make a purchase if you are able.
No comments:
Post a Comment