Unfortunately, this year has been marked by considerable racial strife. There have been many individuals killed at the hands of the police, notably George Floyd, leading to Black Lives Matter protests across the country. In fact, protests are still occurring. Given the rise of violence against black people and the racial prejudice present within the United States, some families have turned inward to create a community of equality and peace.

          Nineteen families in Georgia pooled money together to purchase approximately 100 acres of land for $1.7 million dollars. The group is known as the “Freedom Georgia Fund” and aims to create a safe place for black families.

          Ashely Scott, one of the women to spearhead the movement made a statement on why she believes creating her own community is the best path forward. She said “watching our people protesting in the streets, bringing attention to the injustices of Black people. We need to create a space and a place where we could be a village, again, a tribe, again.” She continued to say that “we wanted to create this safe space where we can address our own issues and concerns.”

          Ms Scott made the point of saying how she believes her investment is worthwhile: “for the same amount for a small apartment in New York, you could own a whole city.”

          Though it might appear as though this settlement is for black people only, Scoot made sure to include that the project is not intended to be racially homogenous. “It’s not even about being just a ‘black thing’, its about having a place where we can all be proud and have human dignity, honor, respect, and equity amongst our black people because we have black talent.”

          Another member of the project, Ms Walters, also commented on the purpose of the community. She said “one of our core goals is to show that it can be done. You don’t have to wait on the politicians and the rappers and everybody to help us. We have to help ourselves.”

          The decision to create a new community is certainly inspiring and makes a lot of sense for a group that is consistently facing oppression. While it is unfortunate that Black people must resort to such an extreme to feel safe, perhaps it is an opportunity for black excellence to shine through in all of its glory.