Reader offers constructive criticism of Selma
Published 12:00 am Sunday, August 22, 2004
To the editor:
I am not writing this letter as part of any grand political scheme. Truthfully, I am tired of politics; at least I am tired of Selma’s infamous “propagandacized, special interest agendalists.” However, I am concerned with the future of this place.
I write after asking myself questions like: Why are there 15 churches within a two-block radius of my house and hardly any souls being saved? Why is the vast majority of the board and officers of the Economic Development Authority and the Chamber of Commerce not a representation of its constituency? Why are Selma’s election seasons more like promotional events to sway the votes of the people, instead of setting a culture that nurtures civic minded, productive citizens?
I view Selma as a vessel, a sacred catalyst ingrained in the quest for justice. This proved true considering its role in the Civil Rights Movement. Selma has been significant in history since the antebellum era and is indeed a special place.
Selma is wounded by many social, economic and spiritual afflictions. These wounds are slowly healing, but are festered by the poisons of hopelessness, greed, conspiracy, complacency and deception. It seems no one is truly objective.
Personal gain seems to turn Selma’s political wheel. Though this is fundamentally true in almost all political arenas, the stakes seem to be higher here.
Please excuse me for being so real, but white folks get over it, the South lost!
African Americans have done just as much toward the establishment of this country. Black people, let us esteem ourselves and establish our communities to a level where we don’t have to compromise and give power to those who wish to oppress us.
Selmians are ready for change and progress.
We have vast resources, from the river, to the rich soil and undeveloped land, as well as an idle, trainable workforce, just to mention a few.
People in positions to mobilize need to communicate honestly and begin consolidating their agendas for the best interest of us all, beyond election time. Otherwise, we’ll consume each other. The masses are hurting by the ignorance and the compromises of the few.
Contrary to what the reader may think, this is written in a positive light, a sort of constructive criticism. Hopefully we can began to truly look to the Creator for insight and check ourselves, so that we can work together to fulfill Selma’s destiny as the vessel it was meant to be.
Ni’Key Reeves