IT’S NOT TOO LATE: THE BLACK AMERICAN AGENDA 2024
Its not too late for Black People to vote in their own interest with the Black American Agenda. Since 1865, African Americans have had to fight vigorously for their civil rights and civil liberties although they were citizens who were supposed to be protected by the government. Voting is a civil liberty that was included in the citizenship of other ethnic groups but for African Americans to obtain voting rights required blood.
Although the right to vote was granted to Black men in 1870 and extended to Black women 50 years later, much of the rights and protections African Americans received came as a result of The Civil Rights Act of 1964. Notwithstanding these amendments, the practice of discrimination and marginalization had already been inculcated into the fabric of American society in the form of redlining, police abuse, educational disparities, and economical exclusion.
The voice and votes of African Americans has led to the extension of rights and inclusion of other ethnic and people groups, but little efforts have been made to establish policies and practices to directly overturn the residual effects of slavery and Jim Crow. African Americans have been the single most deciding factor in swinging most elections and while candidates appeal to them on their campaign, once in office they seem to no longer recognize this part of their constituency and serve others. It could be due to the lack of an agenda in the interest of Black people coupled with their vote.
With laws and bills that have been made to directly protect and benefit a designated people group such as the Anti-Asian Hate Crime bill and the LGBT rights, it is time for America to pass laws that specifically protect the descendants of the builders of this nation. These bills will be people-group specific like the others aforementioned and will not use the term “minority”. These laws are for Black Americans and will benefit the country by demonstrating the integrity and equity of our society.
While the onus is on the candidate to pass the Black Agenda, African Americans have a responsibility to work together. This working together on a political landscape means to vote as a block for the candidate that agrees to sign the 2024 Black Agenda into law within during the first year of their presidency. This working together also means to vote in the local election of politicians and judges. Lastly, this working together must be demonstrating in stopping the violence in our communities and discontinuing the perpetuation of entertainment that depredates our value.
To address the inequities of African Americans, we the people, the Black People of America, agree to vote in tandem for the candidate who declares they will approve the 2024 Black Agenda in their first 100 days and codify the following proposals into specific bills:
- A Bill for Acknowledgement, Apology, and Accommodation
Issue a formal national apology and a presidential memorandum acknowledging the past discrimination, the practice of chattel slavery, injustices by the legal system, and the sabotaging of movements designed to advance Black People. Moreover, to guarantee non-repetition, allow for Affirmative Action in public and private schools, extend the curriculum to include mandatory classes on Civil Rights and Black History.
- Bank Lending Reform
To ensure fairness and equity in bank lending, new regulations will require banks to allocate a proportionate percentage of loans and credit across all categories to the Black population within their service areas. At a minimum, this percentage must align with the national Black population, which is currently about 13.4%. Additionally, loan interest rates for Black borrowers will be mandated to match the average rates offered to White borrowers, ensuring equal financial opportunities for all.
- Federal Funding of “Baby Bonds”
Federal funding of "Baby Bonds" is a crucial step towards addressing the generational wealth gap, particularly in light of the federal government's historical role in sanctioning slavery and Jim Crow laws, which systematically denied economic opportunities to Black Americans. This program, as proposed by Senator Booker and Representative Pressley, would establish a government-funded trust account for every child at birth, starting with a $1,000 contribution. Managed by the Treasury, these accounts would provide additional contributions each year for children born into lower-wealth families, up to a total of $46,500. At age 18, these funds could be accessed, but only for asset-enhancing actions such as purchasing homes, starting businesses, or funding education. By investing in the future of those most impacted by historical injustices, this program seeks to create a more equitable society and provide opportunities that were systematically denied in the past.
- Federal Reserve and Government Pensions
The Federal Reserve plays a vital role in advancing equitable practices within the financial system, particularly for Black Americans. To promote fairness, the Fed should introduce a one-time, interest-free loan program for qualified Black Americans to support homeownership or business ventures. Moreover, the Federal Reserve must ensure that banks and financial institutions under its oversight comply with Bank Lending Reform, ensuring equitable access to capital.
Federal and state pension funds, which collectively control over a trillion dollars, also have a responsibility to invest in equity. These funds should allocate 13.4% of their investments into Black-owned enterprises and businesses, reflecting the percentage of the Black population in the U.S. Additionally, venture capital and private equity funds that receive public money must be required to invest 13.4% of their total funds in Black-owned businesses. These measures are essential to disseminate the economical and racial partition that has allowed for the notion and experience of “Two Americas” to correct systemic disparities and foster a more inclusive and just economy.
- Finance Oversight
The Federal Reserve has a central role in promoting equitable practices by supporting the creation of a Banking Commission, or even a Cabinet or Sub-Cabinet post, dedicated to overseeing and reporting on lending practices, housing ownership, and mortgage access for Black and minority communities. This authority would be responsible for ensuring compliance with fair lending practices and enforcing policies that promote equity, such as those mentioned earlier.
In addition to oversight, this commission would audit federal programs like Economic Opportunity Zones and the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) to assess who truly benefits from the disbursement of these funds. It would also establish a transparent reporting mechanism to identify and address any abuses of economic programs meant to uplift communities in need. By ensuring accountability and transparency, the Federal Reserve can help create a more just and equitable financial system for all.
- Police Reform
Police reforms will be implemented in an expansive act that will at minimum include:
- Elimination of Qualified Immunity – this outdated protection must be abolished to hold officers accountable for their actions
- Mandatory Malpractice Insurance - Police officers should be required to carry malpractice insurance, similar to other professions, to ensure personal accountability.
- Municipal Liability – Municipalities must be held liable for the unconstitutional actions committed by their police officers, ensuring systemic accountability.
- Mandatory Use of Dashboard and Body Cameras - Transparency and accountability are non-negotiable; all officers must use these devices when on duty without exception.
- Ban on Chokeholds and “No-Knock” Warrants - These dangerous practices must be permanently banned to protect citizens' rights and lives. Placing a knee on a suspect’s neck must be included in the ban of physical restraints.
- Residency Requirements and De-escalation Training – Officers should be required to live in the communities they patrol or be involved with local community programs. In addition, they must receive rigorous and on-going de-escalation training and pass a course or race relations prior to active duty.
- Severe Penalties for Evidence Tampering - Tampering with evidence, planting evidence, withholding DNA, must result in severe consequences to uphold justice punishable by jail time, a fine, and punitive damages paid out by the mandatory malpractice insurance.
- Public Federal Database of Police Records - A comprehensive, public federal database of police and disciplinary records must be established, ensuring that once an officer is fired for cause, they cannot be rehired elsewhere.
- Office of Independent Prosecutors - An independent body must be created to focus solely on prosecuting police officers accused of wrongdoing, ensuring impartiality and justice.
- Conflicting Partnerships and Affiliations - Prohibit police departments to receive donations, have partnerships, or any affiliation with organizations or individuals associated with private or public prisons. Any person with prior mid-level to upper management employment or board membership association cannot serve in the police department as an administrator.
- Extensive Background Checks – Prior to acceptance into the police academy, all candidates must undergo a background check that includes an investigation of an applicant’s affiliation with the Ku Klux Klan, an examination of their social media accounts for any hate speech posting towards any people group. No person affiliated with any White supremacist groups will be allowed to be a cop.
These reforms, along with others outlined in the 2024 Black America Agenda, are not optional but necessary to achieve real and lasting equality. Without such sweeping changes, the sustainability of equality in our justice system remains at risk.
- Judicial Reforms
Abolish mandatory minimum sentences and three-strikes laws to address unjust sentencing practices. The Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice will undergo significant reform, with stricter guidelines and enhanced oversight of police departments to ensure accountability. The DOJ will be subject to lawsuits for non-compliance, ensuring that justice is served.
To mitigate a conflict of interest, judges will be prohibited from receiving campaign donations, sponsorships, and be disallowed from having any type of partnerships with organizations and individuals affiliated with private or public prisons. Any person with prior mid-level to upper management employment or board member association cannot serve as a judge.
- FCC Licensing of public airwaves
To rectify the historic neglect of Black voices in mainstream media, broadcast networks will be mandated to allocate 20% of their total airtime to content produced by Black creators. This requirement ensures that Black voices and perspectives are adequately represented in mainstream media.
- Confederate Monuments and Institutions
To confront and move beyond the vestiges of a painful past, it is crucial to eliminate all Confederate statues and the display of Confederate flags on government grounds or public property. Renaming streets, schools, and public structures that bear the names of Confederate soldiers or leaders will further help in addressing this historical neglect.
Additionally, a memorial will be established in Washington D.C. and in the capital of other major states to honor the victims of police excessive force, marking a commitment to justice and remembrance.
- AJP Program for Education and Jobs
Adoption of American Jobs Program (AJP), A Public/Private program that provides access to jobs and education and/or training for people willing to put in the work and commitment. The necessity of the AJP stems from the persistent disparities in job access and economic opportunity that many individuals face. By providing funded training and educational resources, the program not only enhances individual prospects but also contributes to a more inclusive and equitable economy.
- Stop Black Hate Bill
An Anti-Black Hate bill will make lynching will be officially classified as a federal hate crime, reflecting a commitment to combat racially motivated violence aligning with provisions like those in the Anti-Asian Hate bill. Additionally, the Ku Klux Klan will be designated as a domestic terrorist organization. This designation will enhance federal efforts to address and prevent hate-fueled violence and extremism.
- The Responsibility of Black People
Chronic poverty casts a shadow of negativity, frustration, and hopelessness that affects many aspects of life, including increased risks of depression, substance abuse, crime, and violence. These challenges, deeply rooted in generational poverty, have long impacted the Black community. As we strive for social and economic equality, it is imperative that we also focus on revitalizing ourselves and our communities.
This journey is a two-way street. While we work towards achieving equality, we must also let go of past grievances and commit to becoming more constructive members of society. By embracing the opportunities outlined in the Contract with Black America, we move beyond excuses and take proactive steps to improve our lives and communities. Our entertainers and leaders should be encouraged to create and promote positive, uplifting content that guides our youth towards better choices.
With renewed pride and determination, we must collectively fight against the remnants of negativity and work towards a future where hope and opportunity prevail. Together, we can overcome the barriers of the past and build a more vibrant, thriving community for everyone.
Despite being citizens, African Americans have historically faced significant challenges in securing the liberties afforded to other ethnic groups, with the right to vote often coming at great cost. It is crucial that we collectively leverage this right to enhance society by supporting candidates who are committed to implementing the Black American Agenda 2024, we can drive meaningful change, ensuring our needs are addressed, our safety is protected, and our contributions are recognized. Now is the time for Black Americans to mobilize their votes and resources to back a candidate who will prioritize and enact bills in our interest. We will not vote for Kamala Harris based on appearance or for Donald Trump for personal dislikes but will choose leaders who genuinely invest in the future of our children and community.
We hereby pledge our names to supporting this Black American Agenda 2024.
*The Black American Agenda 2024 has adapted and amended proposals put forth in The Contract for Black America.