Being an activist in America has never been an activity that endures hearty compliments and offers of free lunches and invites to prestigious conferences and graduation ceremonies
There is quite a lot of preparation, research and studying to achieve the mastery and maximum outcome of one’s agenda and objective as an Activist. It is important to be able to express humor ,wit, creativity, logic , timing as well as the instincts to respond to situations and topics that generate criticism of one’s activism .
Quite often being an Activist especially on Race and Social Justice issues generates the worst of people and reactions including visceral insults, ridicule, abuse and even death threats.
In the public arena of Race one of the oldest insults is being called a ‘Race Baiter’ In fact I view this insult as one of my greatest compliments and reactions from my adversaries and those who don’t share my views on Race.
It is crucial to research and collect the very best and most credible data, information and statistics on Race especially when one is seeking to offer recommendations and ideas that drive an end to a racist policy or behaviors.
People who resent equality and opportunity for all regardless of one’s race, gender, religion, nationality, ethnicity etc etc must be challenged and where warranted condemned.
As such the reaction of being attacked as a ‘Race Baiter is an acknowledgement for the Activist they are on target