October 15th, 2024

Same Principle, Different Generation: The House Negro vs. The Field Negro

By Roy Douglas Malonson

“So, you have two types of Negro. The old type and the new type. Most of you know the old type. When you read about him in history during slavery he was called ‘Uncle Tom’. He was the house Negro. And during slavery you had two Negroes. You had the house Negro and the field Negro.”
– Malcolm X

In 1965, when Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was jailed for the March on Selma, Malcolm X delivered a prolific rendition to a group of protestors in Selma.

He explained the differences between the house Negro and the field Negro as it was during the days of slavery. Pointing out the characteristics of both, he paralleled the same type of personality that existed in slavery to that which was demonstrated by Black folks during his day (1965).

He explained how the house Negro lived close to his Master, dressed like him, ate his leftovers and even identified himself like the Master.

The field Negro then, was the exact opposite. He stayed out in the field working from sun up to sun down. He cared more about the things that happened to affect all slaves, whereas the house Negro was only concerned about himself and those things which pertained to the Master.

During slavery the vast majority of slaves were field Negroes. Malcolm X continued to explain various other differences between the two type of Negroes that existed during slavery.

As he moved towards his era. He said, “So now you have a twentieth-century-type of house Negro. A twentieth-century Uncle Tom. He’s just as much an Uncle Tom today as Uncle Tom was 100 and 200 years ago. Only he’s a modern Uncle Tom.

That Uncle Tom wore a handkerchief around his head. This Uncle Tom wears a top hat. He’s sharp. He dresses just like you do. He speaks the same phraseology, the same language.

He tries to speak it better than you do… So, this is the twentieth-century Negro. Whenever you say ‘you,’ the personal pronoun in the singular or in the plural, he uses it right along with you. When you say you’re in trouble, he says, ‘Yes, we’re in trouble.’”

After Malcolm X spoke those words, he concluded by saying, “But there’s another kind of Black man on the scene. If you say you’re in trouble, he says, ‘Yes, you’re in trouble.’ He doesn’t identify himself with your plight whatsoever.”

After reflecting on Malcolm X’s speech in its entirety, I wondered to myself what he would think about many of these modern-day Negroes?

Because truth is, the way society has evolved it ain’t very many field Negroes around no more. All of the field Negroes have become house Negroes and nowadays it ain’t nobody hardly left to fight.

Many of them have abandoned their communities and moved into others which was never truly designed for them. They have left a lot of their old landmarks in search of better opportunities, not realizing that they have neglected their own.

You see, back in the day it was the field Negroes who fought vicariously for ALL Negroes. They were the ones who made the way for the house Negroes and the Uncle Tom’s.

But even though some things have changed, still a lot of things remain the same. Hence, Same Principle, Different Generation.

Concluding, We MUST Understand in 2019, there is a new House Negro on the scene. The only difference, his ancestors are not from Africa, but instead Mexico; his skin is not as dark as the original House Negro and chances are English is not his primary language.

But you can rest assured that he is out working to provide for his family locally and internationally. There is no task that is too difficult for him to accept either.

Photo credit: historyextra.com

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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