The Pledge We Took

In 1995, a million Black men stood on the mall in Washington, DC and took a solemn pledge to be better men. Time has passed and for many the Million Man March has faded into history. But for some of us we still try everyday to stick to the pledge that we made.

I pledge that from this day forward, I will strive to love my brother as I love myself. From this day forward I will strive to improve myself spiritually, morally, mentally, socially, politically and economically for the benefit of myself, my family and my people.

I pledge that I will strive to build business, build houses, build hospitals, build factories and enter into international trade for the good of myself, my family and my people.

I pledge that from this day forward I will never raise my hand with a knife or a gun to beat, cut or shoot any member of my family or any human being except in self defense.

I pledge from this day forward, I will never abuse my wife by striking her, disrespecting her, for she is the mother of my children and the producer of my future.

I pledge that from this day forward, I will never engage in the abuse of children, little boys or little girls, for sexual gratification. But I will let them grow in peace to be strong men and women for the future of our people.

I will never again use the "b" word to describe any female, but particularly my own Black sister.

I pledge that from this day forward that I will not poison my body with drugs or that which is destructive to my health and my well-being.

I pledge from this day forward that I will support Black newspapers, Black radio, Black television. I will support Black artists who clean up their acts and show respect for themselves and respect for their people and respect for the heirs of the human family.

I will do all of this, so help me God.