“
The young and naive days of innocence have been wiped away and replaced with an
understanding of history, society and life. I’ve developed a world view molded from the history
of segregation, of racism, and of other horrible events from previous centuries. Murder, rape,
and drugs are what I see happening to my own people of today. From learning about the
past and seeing the horrible things of today I have developed a determination so strong that
hundreds of years of complex schemes developed to hold my kind back will not play a role in
deterring me from achieving my goals and reaching the top. Making it to the top will consist
of staying true to myself and standing for what I believe in . . .
My world view has also been shaped by many wonderful events. Just being in The
Brotherhood has allowed me to learn so much about the world while developing a sense of
myself on my own and through my fellow brothers. I have also traveled to Mexico and Egypt
where I studied the culture, people and their way of life . . .
Education is important to my family and me. Too many times Black and Latino men
make bad decisions and try to survive life without getting a proper education . . . Education
unlocks doors leading into many opportunities. I make a promise to myself to take advantage
of all these unlocked doors because gaining knowledge can only make me stronger and ensure
a better life for my family and me.
This is important in my life as a young Black male.
Ajah Smith, The Brotherhood, from his Oath of Dedication
My goals in this life are that I make it through high school with good grades and get
into one of the top colleges in this country. I want to excel above all standards and stereotypes
that people have about my ethnicity and gender.
I will fight for what seems right for me, and not stop until I reach my goals. I will be a
good sister, friend, daughter and Dominican woman who is not scared to take the next step
to make this world a better place and do good for humankind.
Beatriz Ryan, Sister Sol, from her Oath of Dedication
”
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