The global struggles of Black Descendants: A reflection on discrimination and internal division

In an increasingly interconnected world, the challenges faced by Black descendants across the globe remain a glaring paradox of progress. Discrimination, disrespect, and lack of support persist as painful realities, often exacerbated by deeply ingrained societal hate and divisions within the Black community itself.

The Legacy of Discrimination

For centuries, Black people have faced systemic racism, colonial exploitation, and cultural erasure. While global movements for equality and justice have achieved significant milestones, many Black descendants still find themselves marginalized in education, employment, healthcare, and social recognition.

Across continents, anti-Black prejudice manifests in various forms. In Western societies, it often takes the shape of overt racism, police brutality, and socioeconomic exclusion. In regions with predominantly Black populations, such as parts of Africa and the Caribbean, historical scars of colonization and ethnic divisions foster internalized discrimination.

A critical but often overlooked aspect of this struggle is the role of internalized hate within the Black community. Centuries of oppression have not only segregated Black people from other racial groups but have also sown seeds of division among themselves. Colorism, tribalism, and socioeconomic biases persist, reflecting a fractured unity that hinders collective progress.

For example, colorism a bias favoring lighter skin tones over darker ones continues to shape social dynamics, media representation, and even professional opportunities. Tribalism and regionalism often divide communities, with individuals favoring those from similar ethnic or cultural backgrounds over others.

The global Black diaspora faces another significant challenge: a lack of institutional and communal support. In many instances, Black businesses struggle to gain traction, Black activists face isolation, and Black creatives find their work undervalued or appropriated.

This lack of support is often compounded by the inability of some Black communities to uplift their own. While there are numerous examples of thriving Black-led initiatives, they often operate against the grain, with limited resources and minimal support from within or outside the community.

Disrespect also remains a glaring issue. From cultural stereotypes perpetuated by global media to the erasure of Black contributions in history books, the narrative around Black excellence is frequently overshadowed by negative portrayals.

Addressing these challenges requires a dual approach: combating external discrimination and fostering internal unity.

• Education and Awareness: Promoting the true history of Black contributions to global progress is crucial. Black descendants must reclaim their narrative, celebrating their achievements and addressing systemic inequities.
• Empowerment and Solidarity: Building stronger networks of support within the Black community can amplify individual and collective success. Investing in Black-owned businesses, mentoring young talents, and supporting grassroots movements are essential steps.
• Healing and Unification: Tackling internalized divisions such as colorism and tribalism requires honest conversations and conscious efforts to break free from these biases.

While the challenges are daunting, the resilience and strength of Black descendants worldwide remain a beacon of hope. Movements like Black Lives Matter, Pan-African initiatives, and countless local organizations demonstrate the power of collective action.

By addressing hate in all its forms whether external or internal the global Black community can move toward a future of greater respect, support, and unity, transcending the painful legacy of discrimination.