It's almost impossible to identify the different cultures and races and people of color living in this country, when I was able to determine what they meant by social melting pot. Amongst the different groups, there is a subtle demeanor and less concern about the things American blacks are concern about.

From education to race relations, most other non-white groups seem not overwhelmed by the same issues. Yet most have been able to come here and quietly establish their social, political and economic niche. What may allow them to accomplish this is that some American blacks are preoccupied about things they need or do not have.

They evaluate the circumstances to determine if the gripes of blacks would benefit them also. Unheard from are blacks who were either lucky enough to accomplish their goals, or were more determine to take a few out of the way chances, than the rest. Within this particular group, there are individuals who share skills and professional know-how with those who do not need their help instead of assisting blacks whose efforts have met obstacles.

Most non-whites have a general relationship to where they came from: sometimes by returning to their homeland from time to time, or by some other means of communication. American blacks have no direct connection to other places unless they're Africans from Africa, or blacks from other parts of the world.

Since this may reveal that American blacks have been here much longer, why do certain discrepancies for them trying to develop businesses doesn't retard the opportunity for other non-white groups? We may believe it has some racial overtones, but I believe corporate America know American blacks would use comparable methods to get the same results. And that would create a more competitive atmosphere that could put a damper on their chances of owning and continuously controlling most industry.

Although other non-whites in this country basically don't have this knowledge, they're still able to move into an area sometimes slowly forcing American blacks out and eventually make it their own. It's not difficult to believe there are ups and downs within their communities also. So why are American blacks more vocal about theirs?

Why is it when the controversy about what has or hasn't improved within the minority population hit the front pages, they get center billing? Do these things not affect other non-white groups? Unfortunately, the repetition of these questions don't show why there's a constant, re-occurrence of conflict between whites and American blacks over other non-white groups.

One thing that will often cause those groups to sound off is when any one of these groups suddenly believe they're being singled out by the status quo. As often as others have done in the past, they will either compare the alleged infringement on their human rights to American blacks, or look to them for some support.

Latin Americans, above any other non-whites, have included themselves in the civil gripes of American blacks, although most are able to assimilate into society without changing name or be concerned about skin color.

This is not racial. It's to show social problems of other particular non-white groups, which often becomes an added responsibility for American blacks. Unfortunately, I believe it's because blacks have to include other groups to dignify their strength as a minority. That's why when blacks attempt to get the same concerns from those groups; it is usually dealt with as just another complaint.

To show what I mean by American blacks, they are blacks born here because of their genetic ancestry to slavery. Blacks from the Islands, although connected to slavery also, have been viewed differently. And the controversy with them for decades was they were educationally and culturally superior to American blacks. In fact, this thinking was provoked by the status quo for decades.

The only way any non-white group can get leeway to create businesses, that group has to create no political or economic influence on the populous. Other than Orientals, few non-white groups have been able to succeed to their level. Nevertheless, you can still find businesses of people of all nationalities in black communities.

Since they usually observe what blacks spend most of their money for, they then come smiling as they set up shop. Hair products and nail salons owned by Orientals whose restaurants sit nearby, pizza parlors of Italians, who would burn down any black business in their neighborhood as soon as the first nail is driven in.

Grocery stores, owned by Arabs, Pakistani and Koreans, whose primary stock is beer in 40-ounce bottles, scratch off lottery tickets, cigarettes and girly magazines. Where in this scenario does it show equality for American blacks? What would be the success of blacks trying to open businesses in other neighborhoods.

Although I've seen a temporary change in attitude today, where some blacks were able to break the tradition, the hidden agenda still dictates that there will never be American blacks owning businesses in their neighborhoods.

The opportunity for American blacks to prove they are as resourceful and capable of maintaining their lives has always been handled with caution, adding the assumption that they have no business skills. But it's like I said earlier, American blacks have learned their skills and mastered their style from their oppressor. So obstacles are necessary to detain the most determined.

For blacks who were able to get their foot in the door years ago, unfortunately they left nothing for us to aspire to. Most were gullible and were probably overwhelmed with their prosperity. They did not realize "buddy, I'm here to help", would show up, and whose real intent was a temporary joint venture until they took over.

Politicians will vow to their constituency behind the door and they will keep up the pressure, knowing it would be detrimental to their careers to be too flexible. But more ridiculous are blacks who clap their hands and support them, listening to their illogical speeches during election times.

They usually say, "They believe in opportunity for all". So do whatever you're capable of doing with their blessings. But "not in my neighborhood", is still hidden in the message. They fear the circumstances that could result from any sizable amount of American blacks entering in the area, and that free enterprise could be more successful then their fight for employment with the big corporations.

Since the success of smaller businesses sometimes result in building corporations, the politics that control and create the wall of difficulty for American blacks are blatantly set up in institutions such as banks. Where alleged economic weaknesses create difficulties, so it has a legitimacy few can challenge.

However, blacks whose financial profile are better and who are afraid of change have migrated to other parts of the country, especially the south. Many are benefiting from the same successes as many other groups. Whites do it often, even if it means buying up a total community.

So, it may take American blacks who have given up, and some who may be experiencing some difficulty in keeping what they have, to think about looking into other areas or where blacks in the past left many years ago. It may help to proclaim their niche and change the economic circumstances for all blacks. Of course, not all blacks desire to have businesses, but those who do, should look for ways to beat the odds.

© 2004 By Thomas Duffy
Afromerica staff writer

Brother Thomas Duffy will be keeping the Black community updated on the most current Black expereinces effecting our lives. Visit regularly for new information that could help you overcome and make the best of your everyday experiences.

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