Dallas Conference and Leadership Icons

There is no way around the fact that there were heavy hitters from the black community here in Dallas (Oak Cliff as the paper kept referencing this morning) yesterday. Though some may disagree with the politics of Rev. Al Sharpton and Rev. Jesse Jackson, no one can deny the fact that these men have worked tirelessly in the struggle for justice and equality. The National Conference and Revival for Social Justice made me reflect on that struggle and look forward towards the challenges that are before us. I saw before me what promises to be a changing of the guard on yesterday. Rev. Sharpton and Rev. Jackson have been on the front line for years, and when looking into the eyes of either man, one can see the toll it has taken on each. It was not lost on me, the fact that the older Sharpton, Jackson, or even Charles Steele of the SCLS, were hosted by a younger pastor of similar ilk: Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III. Dr. Haynes is taking the substance of their approach and infusing it with fresh perspectives and unique ideas. Martin Luther King was referenced throughout the day, as he should be, for the fact that we all stand on the backs of his courage and his sacrifice. However, most forget the youthfulness of Dr. King (and Malcolm X for that matter) during the Civil Rights Movement. This youth was one of King's greatest assets. Dr. King was but 26 years old when he was elected president of the Montgomery Improvement Association, and only 39 at the time of his death. Will Black Generation X have any leaders who make a King/X contribution, as they find themselves living out their 30's? How about a Jackson/Sharpton contribution? I'm sure Rev. Sharpton, Rev. Jackson, as well as the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan will fight the good fight until the very end, but new leadership, new tactics, new blood, new energy, new money, new resources must be forthcoming. This is not about a singular figure but about a singular purpose. QUOTE OF THE DAY FROM THE CONFERENCE Would you rather have a Mega Church in Egypt, or a storefront church in Canaan? Rev. Jesse Jackson TONIGHT Rev. Al Sharpton will close out the revival tonight as he is the preacher of the evening. The service will begin at Friendship-West, Wednesday night at 7:00 p.m.