In a powerful statement, NFL legend Jim Brown (@jimbrown) critiqued the role of modern Black celebrities, calling them a ‘1984 Uncle Tom.’
He calls out how many Black professional athletes secure lucrative contracts while being represented by white professionals, neglecting to uplift Black lawyers, accountants and managers. Brown suggested doing so would help build sustainable development within Black communities.
While we don’t know if Brown was speaking of Pan-Africanism or about surviving within the US capitalist system, his words remind us of the responsibility that comes with fame and wealth, and the importance of using influence to uplift our people.