The Longevity of Black Organizations

By FinalCall.com News | Last updated: Aug 29, 2009 - 10:59:00 AM

Interview with Kofi Taharka, National Black United Front Chairman

During the recent 30th Anniversary Convention of the National Black United Front, Kofi Taharka was voted in as the new national chairman of the group led for decades by Dr. Conrad Worrill. With innovative ideas in mind, strong support from elders, and a team of other energetic officials, Mr. Taharka is ever-eager to continue learning and leading. Final Call Staff Writer Jesse Muhammad recently talked to the Houston-based activist.

The Final Call (FC:) How did it feel to be elected as the new National Chairman of the National Black United Front? What are you focused on?

Kofi Taharka
Photo: Jesse Muhammad

Kofi Taharka (KT:) I am focused on being prepared mentally, physically, financially and spiritually to handle the job. I am learning from the elders and looking forward to bringing some new ideas and fresh insight into the organization. We want to uplift and uphold the 30-year tradition of this organization in the grassroots, on the frontline and in principles.

We have a new team and it's not just me. We have other young brothers and sisters who have taken on elected offices and we have been working very hard to put a little more focus on the fundamentals of the organization. Some of the elders deserve the right to step to the side. They are not stepping out but stepping to the side to take on a different role. It's time for some of them to let us do some of the heavy lifting.

This new position is still something to get used to but one brother gave me some advice to just be myself. We (Houston chapter) have put in some work for over 17 years and I think that's why the national organization felt comfortable with our election. They have been to Houston a number of times, they've seen the Houston chapter, they've seen the broader community that supports us so we're going to keep doing what we have been doing and hopefully elevate it to another level.

FC: In looking at that pattern you just stated about the elders stepping to the side but not stepping out, how much longevity and more effectiveness could our Black organizations have if many of them decided to start looking for the younger ones and trained them up for these leadership positions?

KT: That is a critical point that we have to look at throughout the country and the world. I think we could have a tremendous amount of longevity because even though we have some dynamic, inspiring, and charismatic people in positions of higher service, we have to understand it's not necessarily about an individual personality. It's about the plan and the people.

There is a saying that reads, “Bury the man, continue the plan.” This (NBUF election) is a great example. Former national chairman Dr. Worrill is still very active, alive and kicking. He is ready to share advice and participate. It's not like he's on his deathbed or anything like that. So this is an excellent example for other groups. To have longevity, this is what we have to do.

FC: In reading the buzz online in blogs, newspapers and even among some Blacks, it is being said since we now have a Black President there is no longer a need for NBUF, the Nation of Islam, National Action Network, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Rev. Sharpton, or Minister Farrakhan. What is your message to those who are talking and thinking like that?

KT: I think it is very dangerous. We have to look at our history. We know one person holding a particular office, which is the highest office in the land, does not change 400 years of oppression, White supremacy and racism.

We have to look at the issues of education, food, police brutality, the issue of the fire department we are dealing with here in Houston, racism in the workplace and hate. Did that change because President Barack Obama is there? So, I think we got a little honeymoon period but we will come back to ourselves to recognize that there is still a need for community groups and strong leaders that are willing to take a stand on behalf of their community. The fight is not over.

FC: Thank you.

The Final Call