04 November 2009, 11:11 am
In the recent days Birmingham, Alabama has undergone a change in government. Mayor Larry Langford was removed for fraud among other things. He was a fixture in Birmingham politics for many years. His days as a leader in Birmingham are over and in true fashion of all corrupt politicians Mr. Langford invoked the race card. In a speech on the Federal Court House steps with his wife by his side Mr. Langford claimed he was a victim of racism even though there were African-Americans on the jury.
In years past Birmingham was a beacon of racism there is no denying that fact. But this is not the 1950's it is 2009. As Mr. Langford made his claims I could not help but notice all the African-Americans working in the media covering the story not to mention on the prosecution team. I even almost lost a leg crossing the street that day to a new BMW and for the record it was driven by a African-American. I am sure he feels leaving his executive banking job making 90,000 dollars a year that Birmingham, Alabama is totally a racist city in which he has little opportunity.
Birmingham has a chance to change only if the individuals which live in the city step out of the past. Each person has the power within their on heart to change. Birmingham has a rich Civil Rights history and it is well represented in parks and museums throughout the city. There is no problem with remembering the past and paying respect to the great African-Americans who struggled to bring about change. However Birmingham needs a new type of leader no matter the race of that individual. One who can bring all cultures to the table in equality.
In December Bimingham there will be a special election for a new mayor. This election should bring a leader to the city who is not about division for their own political gain. Birmingham needs a leader who is committed to paying of the debts of the city. For too long Birmingham has lost focus on what matters. The children of the city they are the future. Until Birmingham unifies as one culture they have no chance. Trapping the children in debt and racist beliefs of the past is a recipe for destruction. Children are not born racist they are taught it through the beliefs of the culture they are raised in. Birmingham racism is a two way street as unfortunate as it may be African-Americans are as guilty as whites of racist behavior. Birmingham our future is in our hands do not continue the tradition which has lead you to this point. Remember what the President said "Yes We Can".
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