Writer questions black republican ambassadors zeal for outeach to the Black Community

Aprill Shines

Aprill Shines a writer for Examiner.com listed as the Cobb County Republican Examiner recently wrote a piece about republican outreach to minorities. In the piece she praises republican Hispanic ambassadors she seems to question the motives of black ambassadors. She questions if they actually want outreach or want to keep their perceived status in republican circles. Read an excerpt below:

The minority ambassadors for the Republicans to Hispanics are impressive. Marco Rubio appeals to a large and varied audience. Republican Presidential candidate, Mitt Romney's family has a long history of missionary service within Latin America. The Latino National Republican Coalition also does direct, grassroots outreach and organizing for Hispanics around the country successfully.

On the other hand, some Black Republican Councils merely serve as networking events with other black conservatives. Often, the leaders are jockeying for appointed positions within the party and take no true interest in outreach initiatives. It is merely another affiliation to place on their resume. Instead, they safely preach to the choir. They seemingly care more to safeguard their perceived status. Outreach and membership growth is not a priority.

The GOP ambassadors to the black community leave much to be desired. Black conservatism has risen by at least 10 percent from 2004 to 2008. By many accounts, the numbers may be far greater. However, minstrel politics with Amos and Andy style shucking and jiving for the very audience, (conservative WASPS) who will already vote Republican creates myths and deep disdain from black voters. While the black experience is not one unified experience, the Black community would appreciate being approach with respect. Instead, Blacks see polarizing figures who come across as if they are completely disconnected from Black American culture and the Black American voter. This is not about using The King's English or dressing properly. This is about having a person look at you, hear what you say and try to connect with you on a human level. With GOP Black ambassadors, this is a missing ingredient.The GOP continues to present the "untouchable overachiever". The reason why Obama did so well with everyone, not just the black community, is because he is the seen as the "brotha done good." He is portrayed as the smart guy who cares about all people. It is difficult to see where any of the high-profile Black Republican ambassadors have this same urban appeal with a conservative twist.

Read the entire article on Examiner.com