The Warrior 16×20″ oil on linen, framed by the artist

A young African American celebrates his Gullah Geechee heritage. We sense his burning determination for both freedom and identity. He is young and full of potential, eager to make his mark. The glow of freedom radiates from deep within; he longs to be free indeed. Yet, some will only see an “angry young black man” when they look at this painting, a convenient racist trope. Those who blame the problem of race on the oppressed ARE the problem with race. African Americans are still grossly underrepresented in the leadership of this country; they remain the victims of a deeply rooted institutional racism. It’s in our country’s DNA. It is still too easy to condemn the oppressed and point out every negative behavior they exhibit. But the truth, the Elephant in the room, is still with those who have control. Until we have equal representation, where laws and policies reflect true equality and full equity, racism will continue to be the aching sore that tears at the heart of every American.