Black progress in America has never been linear. Every period of success has been met with fierce opposition—a pattern that began during Reconstruction and continues to this day. Yet, many of us fail to recognize the concentrated efforts to roll back not only civil rights but also critical economic gains. Right now, we’re witnessing a deliberate attempt to defund Black America, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
The History We Can’t Ignore
Think back to Reconstruction, a pivotal era after the Civil War. The Radical Republicans pushed through laws like the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, as well as the Civil Rights Act of 1866. These measures weren’t just about political rights—they were about economic power. For example, the 1866 Act ensured African Americans had the right to make and enforce contracts, crucial for building wealth.
During that time, Black Americans weren’t waiting for “40 acres and a mule.” They built businesses, schools, and even dominated state legislatures in places like South Carolina, a former Confederate stronghold. Public education funded by taxpayers? That started with Black legislators during Reconstruction. But as soon as progress began, what followed? White backlash. Radical change was too much for America’s status quo.
This pattern repeated itself with the Civil Rights Movement—a “Second Reconstruction.” Leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. were fighting for equality in jobs, housing, and education. Legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was passed, creating pathways for Black Americans. But these advancements didn’t sit well with everyone. By the time Ronald Reagan became president, affirmative action and civil rights programs were already under attack.
The Third Reconstruction: A New Era, Old Problems
Fast forward to 2020. The murder of George Floyd reignited conversations about racial justice and economic equity. Protests swept the nation with multi-racial coalitions demanding systemic changes. Corporations pledged billions toward diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. For a moment, it seemed like America might finally confront its past.
But once again, backlash arrived. The outcry against “wokeness” and “critical race theory” wasn’t random. It was deliberate. Conservative groups saw the mobilization of young, conscious white allies as a threat. They knew a united, multi-racial coalition could challenge their power. That’s why there’s now a full-scale attack on DEI programs, voting rights, and affirmative action.
Donald Trump’s recent executive orders are just the latest chapter in dismantling these gains. Scholarships, internship programs, and federal contracting opportunities aimed at advancing underrepresented communities are being cut. This isn’t about fairness; it’s about control.
Why Voting Matters More Than Ever
Here’s the hard truth: Black voter turnout has been declining. While conservatives are staying active, many of us are staying home. This plays right into their hands. The Supreme Court’s gutting of Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act after Obama’s election came with a twisted justification—they claimed high Black turnout meant protections were no longer needed.
The results? Gerrymandered districts, voter suppression laws, and weaker protections for marginalized communities. When we don’t show up, Republicans consolidate power, creating supermajorities in states like North Carolina and Texas. That power then enables policies that hurt Black communities economically and socially for generations.
Do you think voting doesn’t matter? Look at the policies being passed when we don’t turn out. In places like Louisiana, Florida, and South Carolina, our absence at the polls has allowed leaders who oppose progress to rise. Without engagement, local elections suffer, and it’s in these spaces—city councils, school boards, state legislatures—where much of the damage starts.
The Economic Fallout We’re Facing
Let’s be clear: this isn’t just about civil rights; this is about economics. Black people disproportionately work federal jobs. These positions often offer stability, pensions, and upward mobility. Now, federal workers are under attack. DEI programs in government entities like the Department of Veterans Affairs are being dismantled. Scholarships and internships for underrepresented groups are disappearing.
When Black-owned businesses can’t access federal and corporate contracts, the ripple effects are devastating. Losing government support reduces hiring, expansion, and investment within Black communities. And once that wealth pipeline dries up, it affects the ability to buy homes, send kids to college, or build financial security.
This defunding isn’t accidental. It is a calculated move to strip Black workers, entrepreneurs, and students of opportunities, reinforcing the systemic barriers so many are already up against.
The Power of Economic Boycotts
Remember: economic power is political power. During the Montgomery Bus Boycott, it wasn’t speeches that brought change—it was money. Black citizens refused to ride buses, cutting into the city’s revenue until their demands were met. The same principle applies today.
If companies aren’t standing with us, we shouldn’t stand with them. Why bail out brands like Jack Daniel’s, which owes its success to a Black man, if they refuse to honor our contributions? Why support corporations backtracking on their DEI pledges under pressure? Black America’s buying power is enormous—our collective action can still shake the table.
When corporations and institutions dismiss our value, we should respond in kind. Support Black-owned businesses. Hold major brands accountable. Force them to see that neglecting our community comes with consequences.
It’s About More Than Voting
This isn’t just about who sits in the White House. It’s about what policies control our lives, our livelihoods, and our futures. The attack on economic gains is as dangerous as the rollback of civil rights.
We can’t afford complacency. It’s time to get involved, stay informed, and refuse to let the progress of previous generations be erased. Whether it’s through voting, activism, boycotts, or education, we all have a role to play.
Conclusion
America’s history shows that Black progress doesn’t come easily. Every victory has been met with fierce resistance. Today, that resistance is aimed squarely at the economic and social gains our communities have fought for.
You have power. Don’t underestimate it. Whether it’s showing up at the polls, supporting Black-owned businesses, or staying informed, every action matters. The assault on Black progress is real, but so is our ability to fight back. Let’s not wait until it’s too late.
