The paradoxical life in the black community is confusing at times. It’s a careful balance between two worlds and one really needs to be familiar with the African diaspora to truly understand why such contradictions exist.
For the term “African American” within itself has deeper meaning than most are willing to recognize. For “African” is seemingly more of a point of reference than origin. Most blacks have never been to Africa, and recognize the United States as their homeland. But to be “American” represents an ideology more so than a country located in the Northern Hemisphere. It’s hard to imagine how the words “African” and “American” are able to co-exist because it wasn’t a merger agreed upon by all parties involved. It was more like a hostile takeover with lasting ramifications.
So as we walk delicately on this capitalistic tightrope, we acknowledge our American culture and beliefs, but we’re careful not to forsake our African roots in the process. Blacks are the ONLY ethnic group in America with this dilemma for everyone else came to this country willingly. And I am convinced that this reason alone is why life in the black community is so difficult. Like everyone, we want safe neighborhoods, with good schools, and easy access to transportation, health care, and retail. But we don’t support over policing, harsh practices, or racial discrimination.
This paradox is a big reason why most developers avoid the African American community. But Building Blox views this void as an opportunity. We fully understand the challenges faced between businesses and the citizens they serve. Our business practice is to serve the people FIRST, instead of the other way around. This “People Over Profit” approach is not popular in corporate America, but in today’s business climate, some of the most successful businesses has adopted this culture.
Although our homes are modest in size, our timeless features are designed to guarantee the appreciation of one’s investment. The typical developer usually builds cheap “affordable houses” for the poor and walks away from the project after it’s completed. But Building Blox is working with the city to implement HOA strategies to remove the burden of maintaining the homes of working class families and shifting them to the businesses that benefit from their existence.
Why are we doing this? Research has proven that cleaner neighborhoods improves the mental health of its citizens. In fact, studies show that cleaner and greener communities become a less appealing place for crime, which leads to a reduction in gun violence and vandalism. So as businesses benefit from the support of its local patrons, they also stand to gain from a friendlier environment. The “People Over Profit” approach would also reduce “black flight,” as middle class African Americans with disposable income would avoid the need to flee crime ridden communities for safer neighborhoods in the suburbs.
It seems practical and simple for the most part, but I’m sure you’re asking, “Why hasn’t it been done before?” Well, most developers aren’t equipped with a moral compass when it comes to business. Their only interest is the bottom line which usually leads to construction deals in affluent communities. Building Blox is different. We believe our strategy will benefit the community, and reduce the strain of local municipalities that are stretched thin with limited resources. We can’t guarantee that building new homes and greener neighborhoods will resolve the paradox within the black community, but it’s a start towards ensuring that everyone, regardless of race participates in this ideology we call America.
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