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Full resolution (TIFF) - On this page / på denna sida - IX. Leadership and Concerted Action - 38. Negro Popular Theories - 10. Boosting Negro Business - 11. Criticism of Negro Business Chauvinism
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Chapter 38. Negro Popular Theories 803
cooperation in America, at this late stage, extremely unfavorable. But it
should not be denied that even discussion among Negroes of Du Bois^
proposal would mean an advance in economic education of the Negro
people.
The second new idea is the use of the weapons of the boycott and picket-
ing against white stores and other businesses in Negro districts which
refuse to employ Negro workers. In numerous movements all over the
country—sometimes with support from the local branches of the N.A.A.C.P.
and the Urban League but usually directed by ad hoc organizations—^the
slogan “don’t buy where you can’t work” has been raised.® An unusual
degree of militancy and tenacity has often been shown, and in some in-
stances signal success has been won.
This last movement has, of course, limited possibilities. At most, it can
increase the employment of a few more white collar workers in the segre-
gated Negro districts. It turns on a petty middle class racial basis and might
even have great dangers. The Negro masses must seek employment in the
general labor market, and their hope is in nondiscrimination, not in appor-
tioning jobs according to race. Speaking about this utilization of the boycott
weapon, James Weldon Johnson remarks:
In our case it might prove a boomerang; on the very argument for the employment
of Negroes where we spend our money, Negro employees may be let out where we
spend no moncy.^-
II. Criticism of Negro Business Chauvinism
The weaknesses of Negro business chauvinism are apparent from a con-
sideration of the facts about existing Negro business.** In so far as Negro-
owned business is inefficient compared to white-owned business, it cannot
exist for a long time. James Weldon Johnson makes the following pointed
observation
:
It is a common practice among us to go into business relying on ‘‘race pride.** Now,
“race pride” may be a pretty good business slogan, but it is a mighty shaky business
foundation. A Negro American in business must give as excellent quality, as low a
price, and as prompt and courteous service as any competitor, otherwise he runs a
tremendous risk in counting on the patronage even of members of his own race.
“Race pride” may induce them once or twice to buy ... a pair of shoes that cost
more and wear out quicker, but it won*t keep them doing it. The Negro business
men who have succeeded have been those who have maintained as high quality, as
low prices, and as good service as their competitors.®^
•See Chapter 14, Section a. For a description of the movement in New York City, see
Claude McKay, Harlem (1940), pp. 184-196. Another slogan of the movement is
“double duty dollar”—referring to the fact that the dollar both buys good and helps the
Negro.
’’See Chapter 14, Section a.
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