Photo: Black-owned business on Southside of Chicago, 1973, home to 8,747 Black-owned businesses with $332 million in annual revenue in the 1970s, by John H. White, National Archives, Wikimedia Commons
Approximately fifty years ago, Fannie Lou Hamer, an iconic civil rights activist and leader, championed the cause of equality, justice, and economic opportunity for the people of the Mississippi Delta. Her indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication inspired generations to fight against discrimination and inequality. However, today, as we reflect on her legacy, and that of Shirley Chisholm, June Jordan, Carol Moseley-Braun, et al it is evident that much work remains to be done. It is time for the Mississippi and America’s political leaders to renew their commitment and fulfill the promise that Fannie Lou Hamer and her politically minded sisters so passionately advocated for.
The Struggles of Mississippi are not as unique as many may believe. The Mississippi Delta, however, is a region steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. It has long faced systemic challenges comparable to most any ghetto in the “United States of America.” Poverty, inadequate access to healthcare and education, racial disparities, and environmental degradation continue to plague the lives of poor people living in impoverished communities. Fannie Lou Hamer recognized these injustices and dedicated her life to uplifting the marginalized citizens of America and giving a voice to those who were considered “voiceless.”
Economic empowerment and job creation was the solution then and still remains now. Fannie Lou Hamer emphasized the need for economic empowerment as a means to break the cycle of poverty, if so desired by the rest of society. It is imperative that political and community leaders prioritize job creation and entrepreneurship opportunities. By investing in infrastructure development, expanding access to capital, and fostering a supportive business environment, we, as a nation can unlock untapped potential. Initiatives promoting the cultural arts, its historical significance, agricultural diversification, renewable energy projects, small-scale manufacturing, education around health and wellness can provide meaningful employment and pave the way for economic growth in every impoverished community in America.
Women like Fannie Lou Hamer, et al, always recognized education, health, and wellness as fundamental pillars of progress. Mississippi, specifically, must understand that investing in its education system, ensures equal access to quality education for all children …and that is a good thing. This involves a plan to redistribute resources to enhance teacher training programs, and initiatives to improve educational outcomes, intentionally. The same can be said for healthcare services. Investments and redistribution of resources must be expanded to include the impoverished communities and made affordable so that the disproportionate health disparities are eliminated in disenfranchised communities. By prioritizing these critical sectors, political and community leaders can facilitate the growth of a healthier, more prosperous society.
To be clear, Fannie Lou Hamer was not only an advocate for civil and human rights, but she was also an environmentalist. She understood the importance of preserving the natural resources that sustain communities. Today, the whole world faces the threat of climate change and environmental degradation. Political leaders must wake up to this challenge by actively mitigating these risks, invest in sustainable agriculture, and protect their region's precious ecosystems by championing conservation efforts. It is through policies and legislations that can ensure a healthier environment for future generations.
As so many have fought tirelessly to secure political representation and empower the marginalized, political leaders must continue Fannie Lou Hamer’s work by actively encouraging community engagement and voter participation. It is crucial that we dismantle barriers to voting, expand voter education, and ensure fair districting. By empowering all citizens to have a voice in shaping their communities, leaders can honor the legacy and create a more inclusive political landscape.
To fulfill the promise championed, by our great and mighty women political leaders we all must act with urgency, courage, and compassion. By prioritizing economic empowerment, education, healthcare, environmental stewardship, and fearless political representation, we can create a more just and prosperous America. Let us honor Fannie Lou Hamer, Shirley Chisolm, June Jordan, Carol Mosley-Braun's memory by ensuring that their dreams become a reality, through Kamala Harris as a beacon of hope, equality, and opportunity for all.
About the author:
Turnipseed holds a PhD, in Public History, from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), Murfreesboro, TN; an MBA and MS in Management & Marketing from Golden Gate University, San Francisco, CA USA; and has authored several books and news articles related to cotton, blues and the Mississippi Delta!
