A debate that’s going on in the community right now, on shows like Blog Talk Radio’s Kala Nation and Science of Life concerns whether or not people in the conscious community should be paid as a direct results of their efforts. For instance, should notable lecturers and authors use members of the Conscious community to make money? Should a God or Earth with supreme understanding charge for teaching you the knowledge they have? Is it OK for those brothers and sisters to sell DVDs, CDs, papers, and lectures?
The general agreement is that it is not OK, and that these individuals are “poverty pimps” aka For-profit Prophets that capitalize on the ignorance of the people
But in my personal opinion, there is nothing wrong with Brothers and Sisters making a living supporting the movement as long as they are providing honest goods and services. In fact, for those of us in the community that have specific gifts – writing, film making, speaking abilities – not only should they be supported financially, they should also be encouraged by us as consumers.
I have talked to a lot of Brothers and Sisters in the movement who, in one breath will talk about our need to create an independent Black economy or a new Moorish Wall Street, and then in the very next breath will criticize a brother for selling $5 DVDs on his site.
This is two-faced and hypocritical.
How else are we to build an economy if we don’t support members of the Conscious community? How can one criticize a Sister for trying to make a living by dropping some hard-earned knowledge on DVDs and not criticize Jordan for charging $200 for the shoes on your feet?
How can you complain about the garbage on the radio and music channels, but not support conscious hip hop artists?
Let it be known that I am not talking about supporting any and every Black man and woman with something to sell. I have been a long time opponent of those that seek to take advantage of our people, especially when it comes to matters of the spirit (“Brother” Bobby Hemmitt, I am looking at you). But when a God tries to parlay his wisdom and understanding into a means of supporting his Earth and his seed, I think its important to do your part.
This is an ongoing debate, and we wold welcome your opinion. Drop us a line in the comments section and let us know what your take on the situation is.
Until next time, Peace!
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