Comments by Samuel Reed III

what happening in american hisstory during this time to spark race massacre?

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 11:25:20 -0400

To understand the context of this text, it's essential to examine three crucial sentences: 1. "In 1921, White rioters destroyed a beacon of Black prosperity and security." 2. "American history during this time [was marked by] race massacres." 3. "A beacon of Black prosperity and security" refers to a thriving community known for its economic success. These sentences collectively allude to a pivotal event in American history—namely, the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921. Here's why each sentence is important: 1. The first sentence specifies the year 1921, which is important because it places the event within the broader historical context of the post-World War I era, a time of economic, social, and racial tension in the United States. Background Info: The Tulsa Race Massacre occurred from May 31 to June 1, 1921, in the Greenwood District of Tulsa, Oklahoma, often referred to as "Black Wall Street" because it was one of the wealthiest Black communities in the United States at the time. The massacre was one of the deadliest episodes of racial violence in American history. 2. The sentence about race massacres highlights the prevalence of racial violence during this period. Post-war America experienced a rise in such violence, often spurred by deep-seated racism, economic competition, and widespread white supremacist ideologies. Background Info: The early 20th century, and especially the period after World War I, was marred by a series of race riots and massacres across the United States. This era is sometimes referred to as the "Red Summer" of 1919, marked by numerous race riots in more than 30 cities across the country. 3. The mention of the "beacon of Black prosperity and security" underscores the fact that the Tulsa community was a rare example of Black financial independence and success in an era of severe racial oppression and segregation under Jim Crow laws. Background Info: The Greenwood District was home to a highly successful African American community, with thriving businesses, schools, and churches. The destruction of this community during the massacre included the loss of over 1,000 homes and numerous businesses, and the death toll is estimated to be in the hundreds. To understand this period more deeply, relevant resources might include books such as "The Burning: Massacre, Destruction, and the Tulsa Race Riot of 1921" by Tim Madigan, or "Black Wall Street: From Riot to Renaissance in Tulsa's Historic Greenwood District" by Hannibal B. Johnson. Additionally, the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture provides online resources about the Tulsa Race Massacre and the historical context of such events. Now, with this background knowledge, I invite you to reflect on the historical significance of the Tulsa Race Massacre. Consider how the destruction of an affluent Black community might have broader implications for race relations in America, both then and now. Upon re-reading the text, you may discover new layers of meaning in understanding the challenges and resiliency of Black Americans in the early 20th century. If more insights occur to you, please feel free to share them in reply.

What are the traits of a Philanthropist who has a modest income?

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 20:48:43 -0500

"he’s truly has the morals of a philanthropist." This quote tells us the writer wants us to see that a true philanthropist doesn't just give away money but also invests time and effort in helping others grow. It's about teaching someone to fish, not just giving them fish, right? Most readers would probably think that being a philanthropist is more about your heart and actions than the size of your bank account. For all the readers out there, ever think about how you could be a mini-philanthropist in your own community? Go back through the story and see if you spot any other cool ways the writer suggests we can make a big splash, even with just a little cash. What do you think are some important lessons about giving back, no matter how much you have?

What about an agnostic perspective?

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 20:38:48 -0500

Agnosticism: As an agnostic, when I consider the 'side hustle ethos,' I focus on its pragmatic benefits without asserting metaphysical claims about ultimate reward or divine providence. It’s about leveraging one’s abilities to adapt to a changing economy, creating resilience in the face of systemic injustices. Samuel Reed's initiative in empowering the youth speaks to human empowerment and progress irrespective of religious convictions. It's based on the inherent value of knowledge and its capacity to effect social change. The shift in language from "racist" to "oppressive" and "undereducated" emphasizes a commitment to truth and an openness to reevaluate societal narratives—a willingness to say "I don't know" and explore, rather than claiming certainty where it may not exist. It paves the way for a constructive dialogue focused on humanistic solutions to social problems, fostering a culture that prioritizes observation, evidence, and reason in the pursuit of a more equitable society.

what about an atheist perspective?

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 20:38:48 -0500

Atheism: As an atheist, I approach the concept of a 'side hustle ethos' and Samuel Reed's educational work from a secular and rational perspective. The entrepreneurial spirit and the initiative to empower oneself economically do not require religious justification; it's simply a pragmatic approach to improve one's material conditions in a competitive world. Furthermore, advancing education for the youth, particularly within marginalized communities, is a powerful means of enacting change and addressing systemic inequalities. The shift from describing the South as just "racist" to more nuanced terms like "oppressive" and "undereducated" suggests a recognition of the complex societal issues at play—a recognition that can pave the way for evidence-based solutions rather than emotional or fear-based reactions. It allows for a focus on enlightenment through education and societal progress through understanding these problems in a way that can lead to tangible change.

Is promoting the side hustle ethos the same as a prosperity gospel promoted by preachers like Creflo Dollar?

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 20:38:48 -0500

Christianity: As a Christian, I would see the promotion of a 'side hustle ethos' in light of the broader teachings of Jesus Christ about providing for one’s family, acting as a steward of one's gifts, and engaging in honest work. While the prosperity gospel may assert that financial prosperity is a sign of God's favor, I would argue that true prosperity is found in spiritual richness and living a life in accordance with the teachings of Christ. Samuel Reed’s work in educating the youth aligns with Christ’s principle of sharing knowledge and empowering the marginalized, reflecting the Christian value of love and justice. The language shift from "racist" to "oppressive" and "undereducated" encourages us to love our neighbors and not judge them, but rather to understand and help them grow. Hinduism: As a Hindu, I perceive life through the lens of dharma (righteous living) and karma (the law of cause and effect). The 'side hustle ethos' could be viewed as part of one's swadharma (personal duty) driven by the motivation to improve one’s life and karma. It is important, however, to ensure that these efforts are in line with ethical principles and societal welfare. The initiative by Samuel Reed to educate the youth resonates with the Hindu belief in Vidya (knowledge) as a powerful tool for personal and societal transformation. Instead of vilifying the South, understanding terms such as "oppressive" and "undereducated" foster an environment of compassion and education, which is essential in freeing oneself and others from the cycles of suffering and ignorance, progressing towards enlightenment (moksha). Buddhism: As a Buddhist, my approach to understanding the 'side hustle ethos' and Samuel Reed's educational work would be through the lens of the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. The ethos of working hard can be a skillful means (upaya) as long as it does not lead to attachment and suffering. The true prosperity is in achieving nirvana, the cessation of desire. Reed’s approach to education allows individuals to understand the root causes of racism and societal suffering ('dukkha') and find paths to alleviate it, embodying the principles of right understanding and right action in the Eightfold Path. The descriptive terms "oppressive" and "undereducated" fit into the context of right speech, which aims to be truthful and beneficial, fostering a mindset that seeks solutions rather than perpetuating division or aversion. Judaism: As a follower of Judaism, I interpret both the pursuit of a 'side hustle' and educational initiatives like Samuel Reed's through the imperative of tikkun olam (repairing the world). The Torah encourages us to seek justice and equity, and this extends to the economic sphere, supporting the idea that one is responsible for their own livelihood while also being accountable to the community. Prosperity is a blessing from God, but it must be balanced with humility and social responsibility. Reed’s strategy educates the youth to understand systemic injustice and work towards societal repair, which is consonant with the Jewish value of wisdom (chochmah) and acts of loving-kindness (chesed). Redefining terms related to racial prejudice encourages honest introspection and social responsibility, aligning with the Judaic principles of truth (emet) and peace (shalom). Islam: As a Muslim, my view on the 'side hustle ethos' is that economic pursuits should be carried out with the principles of halal (permissibility) and adl (justice). The pursuit of prosperity should be approached with the intention of providing for oneself and one’s family, giving zakat (charity), and fulfilling one's responsibilities without succumbing to greed. The prosperity gospel is not aligned with Islamic values if it equates wealth with divine favor, as Islam teaches that trials and blessings can both come from Allah. Samuel Reed's educational goals conform to the Islamic tenet of seeking knowledge from the cradle to the grave, as education can liberate the oppressed and provide them with tools for better futures. The rephrasing of regional disparities as "oppressive" and "undereducated" promotes a deeper understanding of issues and aligns with the Islamic directive to seek justice and knowledge, to remedy ignorance, and to build a community on the principles of equality and understanding.

LOL

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 10:38:09 -0500

Funny

Love is so tricky!

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 09:22:29 -0500

This is really tricky LOL

It is a Language spoken by many people in South Africa...

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 11:48:02 -0400

@Izi.. I guess I have to say Amen to your comment :)

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 11:47:20 -0400

@Jaelynn you make a strong point and ask an important question. As you pointed out in 2008 dating out of your race is much more acceptable in the USA. But 50 years ago and even in some areas today dating out of your race is not accepted.

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 22:14:15 -0400

As for Gay people, today in South Africa gay people are allowed to marry and actually, South Africa has more liberal LGBTQ laws than we have in the USA. But you are right to infer that during the Apartheid period, the laws were very harsh against gay people. Homosexuality was illegal in South Africa during apartheid. The Immorality Act of 1957 and the subsequent amendments criminalized same-sex sexual activity, and individuals could face imprisonment for engaging in homosexual acts.

@Jaelyn, Were White People the majority in South Africa?

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 11:34:29 -0400

My Mom was the same way :)

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 11:56:18 -0400

Why would someone compare Greenwood to Wakunda?

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

It sounds like we are being presented a story of resilience in Greenwood, when looking at it through the post-colonial lens. The comparison to Wakunda can be seen as a way to highlight the strength and resilience of this community in the face of the events and oppression that it faces. Thinking about what it means to "set the record straight" can help us to understand this story from a post-colonial perspective: from the perspective of a colonized people who have been misrepresented in the official record and have fought for the recognition of their history. We can use this perspective to ask questions about the text that involve understanding the cultural markers in Greenwood, the representation of the Other, the effects of oppression and injustice, and the implications of this story for wider society.

Why did the white men need to many machine guns?

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

This 45-second viral TikTok video is sure to grab viewers' attention and summon an emotional response. The video opens with a series of shots alternating between a black teenager in their home surrounded by tributes to their heritage and a group of white men proudly marching with machine guns during a war rally. The camera angles for the different shots alternate between shots from close up of the teenager's face to a wide angle shot of the white men. The contrasting scenes are punctuated by a powerful music track to evoke deep emotions in the viewers. Flashy editing and cool filters evoke a feeling of deep reflection as the faces of the teen and the men emerge from the darkness. The text then reads, 'Why did the white men need so many machine guns?'. This question serves to show the tragic effects of racism on the present day and its lasting legacy from the past. Finally, the video ends with an invitation to comment and share their own perspectives on the issue.

So True!

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

Thank you for taking the time to read and comment on my Medium posts. Please send me a message about this work by replying to this comment.

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

Reed aka Samuel Reed on Medium.

Authenticity.

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

To Andrea's point, Authencity is a major pillar in PBL work we explored and practiced in the PBL program at Penn GSE.

Dr. Hobbs, the guru of Media Literacy Education :)

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

Remixing is essential

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

The keeper of the culture.

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

But wow, with 107 years... she has much to teach us

human cargo

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

black people represented the capital

Jim Crow the bad and good?

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

Money circulated out of necessity.

Black Wall Street Was not perfect!

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

Is Black Wall Streets Success only based on economic terms?

yes

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

But at what cost ?

Black People & Native Americans

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

I now better understand some of the connections between Blacks and Native Americans.

Wakanda Forever!

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

I love the Wakanda reference

Indicted

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

charge someone of crime! The law can sometimes be used against the folks they are supposed to protect.

Weapons of Mass Destruction

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

The Black Community in Tulsa did have arms to protect themselves. But they did not have the force of the Whole Government to help defend them.

Food & Warmth

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

I get a feminist vibe from the line. Black women and black homes are known for hospitality.

BBQ

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

Love me some BBQ :)

Kids and Racism

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

I find it interesting that young children are not born racists. Children do not naturally have racist tendencies... Racism is taught. Racism is constructed .

Baldwin,

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

Baldwin was an outspoken African American spokesperson. I appreciate the way he called out American is Essay Letter to my Nephew.https://progressive.org/magazine/letter-nephew/

Communist a Bad Word

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

I noticed often in history when folks point out critical economic and social issues about race and class in America they get labeled as communists. Martin Luther King was labeled a communist.

Let it burn

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

The City of Philadelphia let the houses on Osage Ave burn too. I wonder what impact the bombing of Move still has on Philadelphia? Is the impact of the fires in Greenwood and Osage Ave the same?

Tulsa On Fire, Reminds me Move on Fire

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

When I think about the bombing of Tulsa, it makes me connects with the fatal bombing of the Move Compound on Osage Ave.

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Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:31 -0400

Alternative recording

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Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

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Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

Alternative recording

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Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

Alternative recording

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Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

Alternate recording

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Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

Alternative recording.

Hitler.

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

In our group, we noted that the character in the right with the mustache reminded us of the dictator Hitler of Germany. We wondered was it a coincidence that this character whom we assumed to be one of the white racists in the mob, resembled a noted historical figure who was responsible for killing lots of Jews.

Uncle Ruckus Boondocks

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

We also talked about how this black character in this comic panel reminded us of Uncle Ruckus Boondocks. We wondered why the illustrator chose to depict this character in this manner.

Puppet masster.

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

In our group, we also talked about how the Rich business class folks would manipulate the working class folks,

Media Hype

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

In my reading group today with Jasir, Tysherah, and Zyiar, we talked about how the media can sometimes increase racial tensions with their coverage.

Voter Suppression?

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

Is black voter suppression still taking place today? Or are some blacks just not interested in voting because they think the system is rigged against them?

Today, are black communities less self-reliant than during the time of segregation?

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

It seems like Greenwood had a lot of positive things going on for herself. Where in Philadelphia can we find black-owned groceries stores, banks, hotels, theaters located within black communities? Did integration hurt or help black businesses https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_hGNksmKDE

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Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

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Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

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Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

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Mon, 20 May 2024 14:29:09 -0400

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Black Love... is Pride Love

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

You clearly have a strong team? But When do ya'll sleep :)

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

Where can we see the live or recorded open mic events>

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

Lilting

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

I love the sound of this word :) It makes me feel the melody :)

The origin of the beef.

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

This seems to be where the original conflict started. @AhmirR in class mentioned that the beef was the original fault of the French. What do others think?

Power!

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

Yep No justification.

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

Abel was beat up by South Africa's racial oppression , so he beat up on Patricia. Not Good

Yep.

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

You are on to something. I did'nt think about the Cane and Abel, connection.

What do you think of Trevor's Hustle game

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 11:43:30 -0400

More Money, More Problems...