When is the Price of Unity Too High?
By Curtis R. Monday – Prior to the announcement of Mayor Richard M. Daley’s decision not to seek a record seventh term, I would have given my unconditional and unwavering support for most activities calling for the unified efforts of African Americans. In fact, I still hold to the belief that unity within our community will solve the vast majority of our problems. However, the cry for a consensus African American mayoral candidate has caused a critical reassessment of the validity for blind unity.
As I watch this political theater in its most intriguing form play out, I am now asking myself the question: “When is the price of unity too high?” Does the importance of having an African American mayor trump the need to have a leader who demonstrates composure and the appropriate temperament under duress? Does the symbolic message of electing an African American mayor outweigh the importance of having someone in City Hall that is professionally competent, possesses an inclusive vision and instills a sense of confidence to all Chicagoans?
History shows that the most qualified candidates don’t always win elections. Most of our American political heroes were people who maintained a balance between competence and confidence. During turbulent and uncertain times these figures invoked a sense of optimism and hope for everyone. Despite seemingly insurmountable odds and mounting anxiety, the steady disposition and uncompromising principles of these leaders created a calming environment for the people.
I think that most African Americans, when asked, would prefer to elect the most qualified candidate. Pragmatically speaking, electing an African American Mayor should create an environment providing both access and opportunity for blacks. This would be a welcomed scenario in a city characterized by low African American contract acquisitions, disproportionate school systems and diminishing wealth among minorities. Minorities, specifically African Americans, have always been forced to play catch up – seeking that evasive utopia called a level playing field. In theory, an African American led administration should be more receptive, empathetic and amicable when addressing the unique needs of our community.
Rhetorically, I asked the question: “When is the price of unity too high?” The answer is when the goal of unification doesn’t lead to a clear and sustainable long term advantage for our community. Unity aimed at creating a more civically engaged African American community is worth the cost. Unifying resources towards the identification and development of our next generation of public servants and leaders is worth the price. Unity designed to eliminate structural racism and systemic barriers to building generational wealth is worth sacrificing for.
(Curtis R. Monday, owner Curtis R. Monday Insurance Agency (www.curtisrmondayinsurance.com). Host, “Dollars And Sense”, Saturdays 8am to 9:30am, WVON 1690 AM. (www.curtismonday.net). Contributor to TBTNewsService.com (Chicago); emPower magazine (www.empowernewsmag.com, Washington D.C.); The Atlanta Post (www.atlantapost.com, Atlanta, GA) and The Global Grind (www.globalgrind.com; NY).
