The Task Ahead

Fall/Winter 1994

Working Toward A Righteous World

In order for a house or building to be built one must have a blueprint to work from so that the house or building is well constructed. Similarly, if we are to work toward a righteous world, we too must have a blueprint. Accordingly, this article will address what we feel are some basic tenants that must be set in place and acted upon to achieve this goal.

However, we must first establish in the mind what is a righteous world, does it exist now and if not, what must be done? From our vantage point a righteous world is one in which all people are accorded justice, equality and freedom which allows them to pursue happiness. But if you observe life and reality in America, then it is quite obvious that this society is anything but righteous. In fact, in most aspects it is the opposite (evil).

How can the most technologically advanced and rich nation in the history of mankind be anywhere near righteousness when the subtle and overt racism of the private and public sector is raging rampantly across the land? Or when millions are unemployed or underemployed; the homeless crowding the cities; children undernourished; murder and crime everyday occurrences; drug and alcohol addiction widespread; sex exploited at all levels and people brainwashed into the “I have mine, you get yours” syndrome. All of the above ills are reinforced through insensitive institutions such as the judicial system that dispenses uneven justice toward the rich and poor, black and white; an outdated educational system that fosters incompetence; a media system that constantly projects negative images of Blacks; a police system that serves like an armed occupation force rather than to “protect and serve” our people; religious institutions that fail to address an economic system based on us being “the last hired, first fired.”

With the above scenario existing, then it is only logical that people should begin to work toward a righteous society. But before that can occur we must do some introspection in order to put ourselves on the road to positive change. We suggest the following steps:

Number one, we advocate that everyone believe and have faith in a divine creator, but beyond belief and faith each individual must work in a concrete manner to achieve a righteous world.

We must set aside petty religious and/or social differences because there is so much to be done in a short time in “working toward a righteous world.”

This can come about by joining forces with others of like mind to feed and clothe those in need, provide shelter for the homeless, spend time with our youth and organize to fight racism and economic exploitation.

Secondly, for divine inspiration and knowledge, each individual should read and follow the dictates of the Holy Bible and Holy Quran from cover to cover. Although, often times, religious leaders provide excellent interpretations of these two most important books, nothing beats a person knowing first hand, the gift of the Creator contained within the scriptures. Also, when we must face our Creator, there is no one including the preacher, minister, imam, nor family members who can intercede on our behalf.

Thirdly, follow the Golden Rule, “Do Unto Others, As You Would Have Them Do Unto You.”

The fourth recommendation is that you read information and books that provide a true history of our people. In fact your home should be a repository of knowledge for yourself, family and friends. This attitude will automatically lead to you establishing a library within your home.

Being a parent who spends quality time with your children and also serving as a surrogate parent for other needy children is very necessary toward building a righteous society.

Finally, when one begins following the above suggestions, there is one last and most important piece in the framework of working toward a righteous society and that is organization. In order for justice, equality and freedom to come into existence, our people must become organized. Meaning you must join with others to work collectively for change. We are in a crisis today because we are not organized. Less than 5 percent of our people today are part of organizations that seek social justice, equality and freedom. As the old adage states “United We Stand - Divided We Fall,” therefore it is your duty and obligation for the children and our future inheritance to come together. We must set aside petty religious and/or social differences because there is much to be done in a short time in “working toward a righteous world.”