In 1965, archconservative William F. Buckley challenged James Baldwin to a debate on the “American dream.” Buckley foolishly claimed that racism was no longer a problem for Black people, but Baldwin quickly proved him wrong, insisting that Black people’s oppression had made the “American dream”’ possible for white people, but not for themselves.
The disagreement between W.E.B. DuBois and Booker T. Washington dominated the Black conversation of the early 20th century. DuBois, a believer in a “Talented Tenth” leading the way to equality, clashed with Washington, a champion of Black economic independence. Although they didn’t see eye to eye on the details, their intentions were the same.
In September 1977, TV host Steve Edwards aired an hour-long debate between Jesse Jackson and David Duke, a former grand wizard of the KKK. Duke did his best to make white supremacy sound normal, but Jackson saw right through it. He knew that the economic fears of poor whites could be “played upon by demagogues” like Duke.
There’s power in our voices when it comes to our people. With every breath, word, and action, we determine history. Where would our people be without these critical conversations?
These three debates show the power of using our voices. Even when we disagree, starting the conversation could spark change in our communities.