One of my very good friends recently said that he is old and not able to risk injury in rallies, etc. I understand that, because I, too, am old and deal with serious injuries -- unlike when I was young and nothing stopped me. Back in the day, after I retired from boxing, I was able to hang out with Abbie Hoffman and Angela Davis. I was friends with Rubin Carter for 40+ years (he knew both Martin and Malcolm), and served as Onondaga Chief Paul Waterman's top aide for decades.
One thing I learned from Paul was that when a group of people work towards the common goals of social justice, that organic leadership will rise exactly as needed. Our generation produced numerous leaders in a variety of roles. Now we are Elders, you and I, and our roles have changed. We identify the young with leadership abilities, and serve as advisors. We encourage every sincere person. And we assure the younger generation that our music was way better, and that Muhammad Ali was indeed The Greatest.
The 1960s was when, for the first time in our country's history, "youth" created its own culture. I admit that I am still more comfortable in living by that code than today's American culture. I am convinced that we must serve as the leaders in a Gandhi/King type of non-violent campaign. To take the front lines, sitting down (or kneeling in prayer). Instead of yelling back at ICE bots shouting, "Get back! Get back!" we respond by singing, "Get back! Get back! Get back to where you once belonged!" from the rooftops.
Decades ago, some fellow broke a board over my head during a march for traditional Iroquois' rights. I don't need that type of thing at this point. Pain hurts more these days. I want to spend my time with my itty-bitty grandchildren. But, because of them, I know that I am being called to protect this country.
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