**Opportunity or Just a Handout? A Critical Look at Kamala Harris’s Agenda for Black Men**
In the ever-evolving landscape of American politics, few discussions ignite as much passion as those surrounding opportunity and empowerment. Pastor Cory Brooks, known affectionately as the “rooftop pastor,” has dedicated years of his life to uplifting the community on the South Side of Chicago. He recently shared his thoughts, shining a spotlight on a new plan presented by Kamala Harris that has many questioning whether it is a true opportunity or just another gimmick to secure votes from Black men.
Pastor Brooks, who famously spent 343 days on a rooftop to raise funds for a community center, is no stranger to the struggles faced by his neighbors. He has worked tirelessly to promote the values of hard work, responsibility, and accountability among young Black men. So when he heard of Harris’s opportunity agenda, which includes forgiving loans, legalizing recreational marijuana, and offering mentoring services, he felt a mix of astonishment and indignation. To him, the notion that opportunity could be equated with marijuana is a clear underestimation of the aspirations and potential of his community.
The pastor argues that true opportunity comes from hard work and perseverance rather than a quick fix or government handouts. He emphasizes that while the idea of a forgivable loan is appealing, it unfortunately has the potential to lead to corruption. History shows that such programs, like those implemented after natural disasters, can often backfire, leading to a cycle of dependency rather than empowerment. He insists that the focus should be on instilling responsible decision-making in the youth, urging them to understand the consequences of their actions, rather than giving them the impression that they are entitled to funds without accountability.
Pastor Brooks takes particular issue with the association some politicians, including Harris and former President Obama, make between Black men and criminality. He finds it patronizing and believes it undermines the hard work he’s seen firsthand in his community. He argues that painting Black men with such a broad brush reduces them to stereotypes, ignoring the many who are striving to be productive, contributing members of society. There is a wealth of talent and ambition among them—artists, entrepreneurs, electricians, and more—yet they are often overlooked in favor of entrenched narratives that focus on dependency.
What is perhaps most disheartening to Pastor Brooks and many others within the community is the idea that their value can be summed up by government assistance. He calls for a reevaluation of how politicians perceive and treat Black Americans, asserting that they should be viewed as individuals with aspirations similar to those of any other American. He believes that esteem is earned through effort and achievement, not through dependence on the state or promises that seem more decorative than beneficial.
As Pastor Brooks eloquently puts it, the struggle for dignity and respect should not be mistaken for a desire for handouts masquerading as opportunity. His message is clear: to improve the lives of Black men and their communities, it requires more than just policies categorized as “love letters” to minorities. It calls for genuine support that allows individuals to stand on their own two feet and assert their place as vital members of society.
In a time where political promises often come with strings attached, it’s crucial that communities, like the one Brooks serves, take a stand for their own dignity and potential. The pastor urges every citizen to value their vote and their personhood in a system that should acknowledge their contributions instead of simply aiming to create dependencies. It’s not just about doing what’s easy, but doing what’s right for the future of American greatness. God bless America!
