Blog Post: "History Repeats, But We Ain't Gotta Play by the Same Old Rules"

Alright, fam, let’s talk about voting and elections. Yeah, I know, we’ve all heard it a million times: "Get out and vote; it’s your civic duty." And don’t get me wrong, it is important. But let’s keep it real – how many times have we gotten all hyped about a candidate, only to feel like we’re left in the same place we started? Exactly. Too many times to count.

Let’s take a quick stroll down history lane, where voting rights were a battlefield – especially for Black folks. From the end of slavery, through Reconstruction, and on into the civil rights era, the ability to vote was fought for with blood, sweat, and tears. And yeah, we won that right, but here we are in 2024, and somehow, we’re still scratching our heads wondering, "Does it even matter who’s in office?" Because no matter who we get up in there, our communities always seem to be the last in line when it’s time for the promises to be delivered.

It's like ordering at a restaurant where everyone gets served except us. We vote, we hope, and then – nothing but cold fries and a half-empty cup. Let's be honest, it's time we stop relying solely on whoever’s sitting in the big chair to save us. That’s not how this game is played anymore.

Here’s the real truth: Voting is just one tool. And if that’s the only tool we’re using, no wonder we keep coming up short. The most important thing we can do right now is organize ourselves, come up with our own plans, and build for us – with or without outside help. Let’s shift the focus back to our own power. Ain’t nobody gonna fight for our community like we will.

At RRCBA, we’re all about that. We’ve got committees for community members– working to empower folks to shape our future with or without the blessing of any politician. We’re talking about real community-driven efforts where we create our own opportunities, lift up our own, and handle our business without waiting for permission.

The time is now to come together, strategize, and make moves that build us up. Whether it's economic empowerment, community safety, or education, we need plans that benefit us and that we can execute. No more waiting on politicians to sprinkle some change down our way. We have the power to create our own table, serve our own meal, and invite others when we see fit. That’s what true empowerment looks like.

So, this election season, sure, cast your vote – but don’t stop there. Let’s be smart about it. Use your vote as a stepping stone, not the finish line. The real work begins with organizing, building, and empowering our communities from the ground up. It’s time we flip the script and start playing by our own rules. You in?

Catch up with RRCBA to learn more about how you can be part of this movement. We’re building, one block at a time, and we’d love for you to join us on this journey. #PowerToThePeople #Organize #RRCBA