WOW ATLien, this post is extremely uplifting and it gives a sista some hope. Your endeavors in the #ShutItDownATL movement are heartwarming and motivational. You blog serves as a platform for readers to not only share their insights but to come together and make moves, and to that, I say KUDOS, my love. Long time lurker, poster and fan!!!

I enjoyed this post. Very informative

Thank you for the opportunity to express my thoughts. I enjoyed the commentary by the posters in this article. There were some good points made such as the explanation of why the interstate was obstructed and the power of the black dollar. What concerns me, as AA, why are we still battling the cause of freedom and equality in this country? The methods and route we have taken has had an impact of change, but it appears to be a Band-Aid. Also is the the question is why are those in power willing to "allow" us the change? To "ask" for something from someone else is further validating that person is in control. That positions the person to not only feel powerful, but to sit "methophorically" on a throne and decide to grant the wish. For example, "May I have a job?" (Who has the job?) or, "May I have a loan?" (Who has the loan?) Aren’t we tired of asking for permission to live, to achieve and to provide for our families? Aren’t we concerned that we are telling "the powerful" we are powerless through our constant marching and protesting? Don’t you think they know they are more powerful based upon your request? When are we going to live like we have power? Establish a community where everyone contributes and live without oppression…Establish we have power through our actions, and not the request of others to validate our power. Let me be clear… I am for equality and the end of racism whether it is black on white or vice-versa. I believe all races should live in harmony and peace. However, if the non- peacemakers are causing disruption through hindering progression of anything adverse to their standards (based upon race, sexual orientation, gender and religion) then how do we live in harmony and resolve the issues they are causing? Force them? How? By telling them to do right by us? Why? Because we contribute our money and labor centuries ago. I’m going to put it like this. If I don’t like my situation, I don’t ask someone else to change it for me. I do it myself. As the oppressed the example is…If my man doesn’t treat me right, I leave my man. As the oppressor, the example is…If you don’t like my vehicle, your opinion on it won’t change my thoughts on it. But, I may change what I drive because I’m under attack, but I will revert to my behavior because you made me react, but you haven’t changed anything because I’m still in power. Does anyone understand that? We are band-aiding the black experience in America. We have to be mindfully aware of the bigger picture that has existed for over 400 years in this country. Some openly do not want to give up their position as the number 1 race. Some do not want to be considered equal to others. Some do not like you; point blank period. Some think you have everything you need. Some will never ever understand the black oppression and experience in the US. Some believe they are better and you are less. Some are very fearful of you. Some are upset, yet will remain silent. And those who step forward has an agenda. A select few will come forward and say/act, regardless of how I was raised or what I think on some issues, we should not hold others back from what is rightfully theirs. The question remains, how to obtain what is ours and the best methods to ceasing oppression once and for all.