It’s Time to Step Up: A Call for Change in Our Communities

Dear Community,

We are living in unprecedented times. Over the past few years, America has welcomed an influx of immigrants, migrants, and refugees seeking safety and opportunity. While this act of humanity is commendable, the allocation of resources and the impact on our neighborhoods—predominantly low-income, Black communities—cannot be ignored.

The issue isn’t the help given to migrants, immigrants, or refugees; the issue is how resources are distributed. When the government finds hundreds of millions of dollars to provide housing, food, and other essentials, why is that money not split to also support the people already struggling in these communities?

The Reality We Face

Instead of equitable allocation, we’ve seen these resources poured into neighborhoods where people were already suffering. Jobs in fast food, retail, and convenience stores that had been vacant for years are now filled by migrants. Businesses thrive, and cities prosper, but those who’ve lived in these neighborhoods for decades remain left behind.

I’ve heard mayors refer to migrants as their “workforce,” and while that may sound harsh, it’s also the truth. These workers are showing up and filling positions that have been empty for far too long. And here’s the uncomfortable part: Before migrants came, many of these jobs were available, but they weren’t being taken.

The question we must ask ourselves is this: What happens if the migrants leave? Will the people in these neighborhoods step up to fill those roles, or will we see those “Help Wanted” signs return, dragging communities backward?

My Plea to Black Communities

As a Black woman who advocates tirelessly for our people, I need to speak directly to you. This is not about blaming or shaming—it’s about empowerment. When I sit at tables where decisions are made, I hear things said about us that make my stomach turn. Words about laziness, lack of ambition, and a refusal to work.

We must change the narrative. We must show up for ourselves.

When we work the jobs, when we pay our bills, when we demand laws and resources that support us, we prove the stereotypes wrong. We create a future for ourselves and our children. We strengthen our neighborhoods so that no one—no mayor, no policymaker, no employer—can ignore us.

But if we don’t step up, someone else will. And they will take the jobs, the opportunities, and the future that could have been ours.

How to Take Action

1. Work the Jobs If there are positions open in your community, take them. Show the businesses and policymakers that you’re ready to contribute and be part of the solution.
2. Engage in Policy Discussions Lawmakers cannot create effective policies without input from the people they serve. If you don’t speak up about what you need, decisions will be made without you.
3. Treat Each Other with Respect Whether it’s at a job, a store, or within the community, let’s show each other the dignity and kindness we deserve. If we don’t respect ourselves, we can’t expect others to respect us.

A Final Word

This message is not just for Black people—it’s for anyone struggling in low-income neighborhoods across America. But as a Black woman, I feel a responsibility to speak directly to my community.

It’s time for us to step up. Not because anyone else is better, but because we are capable of better.

Let’s stop waiting for others to save us. Let’s save ourselves.

With hope and determination, Lashondra Graves, The Apartment Lady?