In a powerful message delivered recently, a pastor who once served as the National Youth and College Director for the NAACP emphasized a pivotal moment in American history.
He highlighted that the first time the United States bombed its own citizens was not during a foreign conflict but right in Tulsa’s Greenwood district, a hub of Black economic prosperity.
This tragic event underscored the systemic fear surrounding Black financial power and the necessity for unity in economic advancement.
The pastor stressed that despite being the 11th wealthiest community globally, African Americans often find themselves with little to show for it beyond material possessions.
“When we talk about investment, many of us might as well be speaking a foreign language,” he remarked, pointing to the stark reality that 86% of Black individuals do not own any stock.
This lack of financial literacy and investment culture hinders progress and perpetuates cycles of poverty.
He passionately urged his audience to seize opportunities for investment, particularly in emerging technologies.
Drawing on the wisdom of Benjamin Mays, the former president of Morehouse College, he reminded listeners that those who fail to adapt and grow will inevitably be left behind.
The importance of investing in platforms like FAMBASE was highlighted as a revolutionary step towards economic empowerment.
Reflecting on missed opportunities in the tech industry, the pastor noted how many people now regret not investing in companies like Apple or Microsoft during their formative years.
He pointed out that just this week marked the 15th anniversary of Facebook acquiring Instagram for $1 billion, a decision Mark Zuckerberg likely celebrates today.
“Your greatest regret is not what you do, but what you don’t do,” he stated emphatically.
The pastor issued a bold challenge: he called for 25,000 individuals to invest $600 each, framing this as a crucial step toward changing their futures and securing a legacy for their descendants.
He highlighted the unfortunate reality that many prominent figures, including Prince and Aretha Franklin, failed to leave behind effective estate plans, leaving their families to grapple with financial uncertainty.
As he walked through the streets of Tulsa, commemorating the 102nd anniversary of the bombing, he reflected on the legacy of Black entrepreneurship in the area, recalling families like the Bryants who once thrived.
He emphasized the importance of remembering history to avoid repeating past mistakes and to inspire future generations.
With a sense of urgency, he called for action, urging listeners to visit StartEngine.com/fanbase to learn more about investing in this initiative.
“This is a radical and revolutionary opportunity,” he declared, encouraging everyone to spread the word and rally support for this cause.
He challenged the audience to shift their focus from consumerism to investment, suggesting they consider pooling resources for collective growth rather than spending on fleeting pleasures.
“Instead of planning another brunch, let’s elevate our financial game,” he urged, appealing to the community’s desire for change.
The pastor encouraged those who invest to adopt the title of “Afrofuturist” on social media, signifying a commitment to a brighter future grounded in economic empowerment.
He made it clear that this movement is not just about individual gain but about building a legacy for future generations.
He reminded the audience that they don’t need to travel or gather at a specific location to participate; they can make a significant impact from the comfort of their homes.
“This is a moment to make history, not just recite it,” he proclaimed, invoking a sense of urgency and responsibility.
As he wrapped up his passionate plea, he reiterated the importance of coming together as a community to effect real change.
“If we don’t take action now, we risk losing the chance to shape our future,” he concluded, leaving listeners with a strong call to invest in their legacy and uplift their community.
