Entrepreneurship as Empowerment: The New Path for Black America

By Dr. Rosie Milligan, L.A. Sentinel

A Defining Moment for Black America

Black America is at a critical juncture. We find ourselves amidst a racial melting pot where every community—Latino, Asian, Middle Eastern, African, and Eastern European—is competing fiercely for economic opportunities. The landscape has shifted, and the truth is stark: while various groups present strategic plans for their advancement, Black America often finds itself waiting. Waiting for rescue, waiting for change, but the reality is that the rules of the economic game have transformed.

The Illusion of DEI

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives were never designed to be our saviors. As corporations pull back from these efforts, it becomes painfully clear: there is no obligation to hire, promote, or advance our children within these frameworks. The era of waiting for someone to save us is over; it is time for self-determination.

The New Reality

Generations have conditioned Black individuals to believe in external salvation: that government will equalize opportunities, that corporate America will promote diversity, and that educational institutions will guarantee upward mobility. However, the recent trends tell a different story. Downsizing, automation, and a devaluation of degrees are just the surface of a much deeper economic crisis.

If we continue to wait for others to unlock doors, we risk remaining perpetually excluded from economic prosperity. Our children must hear this truth unvarnished, no sugar-coating.

Observing Ownership Across Communities

Take a walk in any major city and note the ownership landscape. Gas stations, motels, technology startups, and community eateries are often run by people from various backgrounds—yet rarely by African Americans. While we are distracted by internal conflicts, other communities are building family-run businesses, pooling resources, and creating pathways for generational wealth. They are not waiting for acceptance; they are constructing their opportunities and investing in ownership—literally purchasing the buildings they inhabit.

Entrepreneurship: A Survival Imperative

Entrepreneurship is often misunderstood as merely starting a business. It is much broader; it encompasses economic self-defense, acts as a shield against discrimination, and serves as a vital pathway to independence. It provides a framework for community wealth and offers a legacy for our children.

The cruel reality is that entrepreneurship is the only viable option to ensure our children have opportunities when the conventional system fails them. It allows us to sidestep the limitations imposed by a shifting economy and grants our children the freedom to thrive without seeking permission.

The Deceptive Comfort of DEI

DEI initiatives provided a temporary sense of inclusion and progress, lulling many into believing their positions were secure. But the dismantling of DEI has revealed uncomfortable truths:

• The seating arrangement isn’t as stable as it appeared.
• Advancement opportunities were never guaranteed.
• Inclusion was often contingent, not foundational.

As DEI wanes and the economy undergoes its own upheaval, we must shift our mindset. The message for our children must become crystal clear: doing a job may feed you, but ownership will liberate you.

The Necessity of Honest Communication

We owe it to the next generation to dispense with outdated notions of success like simply acquiring good grades and expecting the world to reciprocate. The environment they are inheriting is merciless; it rewards innovators and entrepreneurs rather than passive job seekers.

Every young Black child must learn these essential truths: Corporate America will not save them; they are competing on a global stage, not just in their neighborhoods. Multiple streams of income are imperative, and they need to acquire marketable skills over degrees that may not lead to viable employment.

Ownership: The New Civil Rights Movement

The previous Civil Rights Movement fought for access; the emerging movement must advocate for ownership—ownership over businesses, land, technologies, and other forms of intellectual property.

Time is not on our side. Our community is already lagging in wealth accumulation and technological advancement. Adopting an entrepreneurial mindset should be as vital as breathing—not a mere backup plan.

A Call to Action

If Black America is to survive and thrive as society evolves, we must embrace a series of proactive strategies:

• Focus on building businesses rather than just résumés.
• Instill a deep appreciation for ownership in our children.
• Engage in group economics and establish strategic partnerships.
• Embrace technology, artificial intelligence, and digital commerce.
• Formulate family legacy plans and develop wealth pipelines.

This is not just a possibility—it is an urgent requirement. The new emancipation lies in entrepreneurship, and this conversation must unfold now, presented with unapologetic honesty.

Instead of sidestepping difficult questions, we must prepare our children for the future. One day, they will ask us, “Mama, Papa, what happened to us?” Reflect on that question and consider what your answer will be.

Dr. Rosie Milligan, Self-appointed Mayor of South-Central Los Angeles, Author, Publisher, Senior Estate Planner, Owner of Professional Business Management/Consulting Services.

Related Insights

Further discussions on fostering entrepreneurship, community building, and navigating economic complexities are essential for empowering future generations.