HAROLD KELLER

Time for NAACP to help all America is known as the melting pot of the world. We are all called Americans, regardless of the origin of our ancestors. We all desire to be in mainstream America, getting a piece of the American pie, living free and succeeding as much as we are willing to pay the prices. Hard work – unity – opportunity – it’s here in America for all who choose to be a part of the greatest free nation ever created by God. The land of the free and the home of the brave. All of that sounds like a pretty good place to me, but why all the division among people that are free? Freedom for some people seems to be hard to accept. I’ve seen many men, in and out of jail, not being able to function when free. Why? Because with freedom comes responbility to be able to function in mainstream America. Yes, with freedom comes responsibility to flow with all the people that make up this huge melting pot called America. This week, the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) leaders are meeting in New Orleans. The first thing on the agenda should be to change the name. Years ago, “colored” was used to describe people of the black race. Maybe a good name for the organization would be the NAAAP (National Association for the Advancement of American People). That would be putting the past behind, moving into the future and getting into the mainstream. Just think – all Americans coming together to solve some of the problems that exist in our society. That would guarantee progress. Julian Bond, NAACP chairman, blasted President Bush on his record in office for the first six months. He drew jeers and chuckles from the crowd. He worked his audience, knowing that 90 percent of them voted against Mr. Bush. He criticized Interior Secretary Gale Norton and Attorney General John Ashcroft – both happen to be white. He never mentioned the diversity of President Bush’s cabinet. Secretary of State Colin Powell, Education Secretary Rod Paige, and National Security Advisor Condoleeza Rice all happen to be black (not “colored”) and, I might add, very capable. He also said race relations are not getting any better. I agree, but I’m not taking the blame for that. He boasted that 90 percent of blacks voted against President Bush. Wow! They must see the man I proudly voted for as a demon! Yes, America is still divided and the reason is because some leaders are afraid to blend in and join the mainstream. They prefer to remain outside, criticizing and continuing to promote friction between the races, instead of joining the All-American team. Maybe it’s time to move on. HAROLD KELLER writes this column as part of his affiliation with the Get High on Life religious motivational group. Call him at 652-8477, or write to P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, La. 70080.