An 8-Step Guidance to Rebuilding Black Wall Street.
The revival of Black Wall Street is not merely a historical restoration, but a spiritual movement that demands alignment with divine purpose. The success of this effort hinges on removing the self and embracing the Spirit of God in everything we do. Our community's progress will come through faith, obedience, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This is a spiritual endeavor, and any attempt to achieve it through human strength or fleshly desires will ultimately fail. Therefore, the foundation of this movement must be rooted in the Right Spirit.
1. The Right Spirit: Foundation of Kingdom Work
The "Right Spirit" represents an alignment with the Spirit of God, requiring a shift away from self-centered motivations. This is the first and most critical step, a deal breaker for those who wish to partake in this Kingdom Building effort.
Surrendering the Self
The individual must decrease, allowing God’s Spirit to increase within. This means abandoning ego, personal ambitions, and material desires, in favor of a higher calling. We must ask ourselves, "Are we prepared to let go of our own agendas and submit to God’s will?"
Spiritual Discernment
We are called to operate under divine discernment, seeking God’s guidance in every decision. This includes identifying the right opportunities, forming the right partnerships, and knowing when and where to act. Spiritual discernment requires consistent prayer, meditation on the Word of God, and fasting.
Maintaining the Right Spirit
Continuously check and align your spirit with God’s Spirit. It is easy to fall into distractions, pride, or doubt. Leaders must maintain a humble heart, always turning back to God to refresh and purify their intentions.
2. Identifying the Target Region: Guided by the Spirit
Just as the Israelites were led to the Promised Land, the movement to restore Black Wall Street must be divinely guided to the right region in Tulsa. This is not just a geographic location; it is a spiritual territory meant to flourish under God’s Kingdom.
Spiritual Mapping
Identify the specific areas within Tulsa that carry spiritual significance. This involves understanding the history, the culture, and the spiritual climate of the region. Tulsa’s North district, for instance, carries the legacy of Black Wall Street, but where is God directing us now?
Prayer Walks and Spiritual Activation
To claim territory, leaders must engage in prayer walks around the identified areas. Prayer activates the Spirit in that place, inviting God to dwell and move within the region. These walks should involve intercessors who can sense and declare God’s presence.
Claiming the Land for the Kingdom
Once identified, declare the land as a part of God’s Kingdom. The enemy often seeks to claim territory, but with faith, boldness, and spiritual authority, leaders can reclaim these regions for the purpose of community revival and empowerment.
3. Black Wall Street Leadership: Spiritual Requirements
Black Wall Street was more than an economic hub; it was a symbol of black excellence, resilience, and community. To revive it, leaders must embody spiritual qualities that mirror God’s heart for justice, restoration, and empowerment.
Servant Leadership
Jesus said, “The greatest among you must be a servant” (Matthew 23:11). Leadership in this movement is about serving the community, not seeking personal gain. Leaders must be willing to sacrifice their comfort for the betterment of others and remain accountable to both God and their community.
Spiritual Accountability
Leaders must remain accountable to God and to one another. This requires transparency, humility, and openness to correction. Establish spiritual mentorship and accountability structures within the leadership to ensure no one is walking this journey alone.
Visionary Faith Black Wall Street’s revival will not be an immediate process; it requires a vision that extends beyond what can be seen in the present. Leaders must have unwavering faith in God’s promises and encourage others to believe in the vision, even when progress seems slow.
Prayer and Intercession
Prayer must be at the center of every decision and action. Leadership should establish regular intercessory prayer gatherings, seeking God’s guidance and protection over the movement. Intercessory prayer will also cover the leaders and their families, shielding them from spiritual attacks that often come with Kingdom-building work.
4. Kingdom Building: A Holistic Approach
Kingdom Building is not limited to economic revitalization; it is about creating a community that reflects God’s Kingdom on Earth. The efforts to rebuild Black Wall Street should be holistic, addressing the spiritual, economic, social, and cultural needs of the community.
Economic Empowerment
While spiritual growth is primary, we must also focus on sustainable economic growth. This includes supporting black-owned businesses, creating financial literacy programs, and establishing funding channels that align with Kingdom principles of stewardship.
Spiritual and Emotional Healing
Many in our community have endured generational trauma, economic oppression, and racial injustice. Part of Kingdom Building involves bringing healing to these wounds. This can be facilitated through spiritual counseling, workshops on emotional health, and spaces for open dialogue and reconciliation.
Education and Mentorship
The next generation must be equipped to carry this vision forward. Establish mentorship programs that foster both spiritual and practical skills. Education initiatives should not only teach academic and vocational skills but also build character, integrity, and a sense of purpose rooted in God’s calling.
5. Movement to Rebuild
Community and Fellowship
Finally, Kingdom Building is about fostering a deep sense of community. Regular fellowship, worship, and communal events will solidify the bond within the community and create an atmosphere where the Spirit of God can dwell.
The movement to rebuild Black Wall Street is a spiritual calling, not a human endeavor. It begins with embracing the Right Spirit—the Spirit of God—and allowing His guidance to shape every aspect of the journey. From identifying the target region to cultivating spiritual leadership and creating a holistic community, every step must be taken in faith, humility, and unwavering dedication to the vision God has set before us.
This Kingdom building effort pays merited and daily homage to Black Wall Street pioneers like William Anderson, B.C. Franklin, Ada Huff, Emma & O.W. Gurley, Henry Lilly, Mabel Little, Dr. A.C. Jackson, Edward P. McCabe, J.B. Stradford, Loula T. Williams and many others.
Say their names.
Success will come not by might nor by power, but by the Spirit of God (Zechariah 4:6). As we surrender to His leading, we will see the revival of Black Wall Street, not just as an economic hub, but as a beacon of hope, faith, and Kingdom principles for future generations.
See: Seven Spiritual Foundational markers
The recognition and revitalization of Black Wall Street districts as thriving urban hubs presents a unique opportunity to cultivate areas that are not only centers of business and industry but also powerful cultural and social institutions. Such districts, with 50% to 70% or more African American-owned businesses, stand as potential beacons of economic autonomy, creativity, and innovation. By promoting African American entrepreneurship on such a grand scale, these districts could foster a model of sustainable economic growth that inspires future generations. The development of these areas, however, must be approached with foresight, careful planning, and a collaborative spirit that places the community's long-term success at the forefront. Visionaries, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders will play critical roles in shaping these spaces, ensuring they thrive not just economically, but also as cultural epicenters that celebrate African American heritage and future potential.
In order to unlock the full potential of these districts, leadership must focus on inclusivity and equity in the decision-making process. A balanced and diverse group of stakeholders must be assembled to guide the development of each Black Wall Street district, with a clear mandate that no single interest or group is allowed to dominate. This collaborative governance model will ensure that the vision for the district reflects the needs and aspirations of the broader community rather than narrow, self-serving agendas. It is essential that leaders in these initiatives understand that economic development goes hand in hand with community well-being, and that the ultimate success of these districts will depend on fostering environments where all voices are heard and valued. By prioritizing balanced representation, these districts can serve as exemplars of democratic governance in urban redevelopment.
Furthermore, an in-depth understanding of Greenwood's historical blueprint is critical for those involved in the leadership and planning of these districts. Greenwood’s rise as a symbol of Black economic independence in the early 20th century, followed by its tragic destruction, offers profound lessons in resilience, community-building, and the fragility of progress in the face of systemic racial violence. Leaders and board members must be well-versed in this history, using it as a foundation to guide modern efforts toward sustainable growth and protection. The triumphs and challenges of Greenwood provide a historical context that should inform every decision made, ensuring that the mistakes of the past are not repeated and that the district’s redevelopment reflects a commitment to resilience, equity, and justice.
Additionally, urban planners and developers must engage in meticulous mapping and strategic planning to ensure that the chosen district for implementation aligns with long-term economic, social, and environmental goals. The submission of detailed area maps to the Black Wall Street USA Administration, along with state and regional directors, will be critical for securing approval and ensuring that the district is established on solid ground. This strategic approach will allow for the alignment of local and regional development goals while ensuring that the district remains rooted in the needs of its residents and business owners. By focusing on comprehensive planning that integrates housing, transportation, and public spaces, the district can evolve into a model of urban sustainability and innovation.
Looking ahead, Black Wall Street districts have the potential to become not just symbols of African American economic empowerment but also catalysts for broader societal change. As these districts grow and prosper, they can serve as examples of how urban development can be equitable, inclusive, and culturally enriching. The success of these districts would send a powerful message that economic justice and community well-being are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary goals. In turn, these thriving urban centers can inspire similar efforts across the nation, sparking a renewed commitment to racial equity, entrepreneurship, and cultural pride. By embracing the lessons of history and looking toward a future of shared prosperity, Black Wall Street districts can become enduring legacies of innovation and resilience, reshaping the urban landscape for generations to come.
Organized Black Wall Street Districts
New Black Wall Street Districts: 2023 to 2026
2026 Proposed Black Wall Street Districts
Process objectives serve as the foundational strategies necessary to fulfill district development goals, emphasizing the implementation of a comprehensive plan to enhance communication and economic activities within the neighborhood. In the case of the Black Wall Street District, the establishment group must prioritize the adoption of this strategic plan, marking the initial milestone toward revitalizing the community. This adoption itself is a key objective, setting the stage for further advancement.
Behavioral and community-level outcome objectives focus on altering collective actions and their tangible results. Behavioral objectives target increasing leadership among community members, fostering entrepreneurial relationships that bolster commerce. Community-level outcomes, by contrast, emphasize broader societal impacts, such as improving housing availability, which in turn stimulates business growth. Historically, it is the working class that propels such economic progress, driving increased investment and venture capital in districts like Black Wall Street.
The forming process for a Black Wall Street District project involves several key steps to ensure its success, particularly in securing support from business owners in the potential district. The first task is organizing an initial meeting with business owners, including setting a date, time, and location, and assigning roles such as Chairman and Secretary. Hospitality responsibilities, such as providing refreshments and preparing sign-in sheets, should also be arranged. Documentation is crucial, with the creation of Articles of Incorporation and official bylaws, both of which should be filed with the state’s incorporation agency, typically the Secretary of State’s office.
Regular meetings are necessary for new districts, ideally twice a month, to establish a record of minutes and resolutions. Financially, the district must set up a business bank account with at least two authorized signers. Leadership roles should be defined, involving local government officials, community volunteers, and other stakeholders. Invitations, including an agenda and participant list, should be sent to potential contributors. Influential groups, political leaders, and decision-makers must be identified, as their support is vital. The project’s stability and mission alignment should also be considered. Lastly, economic factors, such as securing financial backing, play a crucial role in the project's long-term viability.
A capacity analyst plays a key role in the formation of a Black Wall Street district, assessing whether the infrastructure and resources of an area can support a thriving business ecosystem. They evaluate physical infrastructure, such as transportation access, utilities, and available commercial spaces, to determine the district’s ability to accommodate more businesses. This analysis helps ensure that the area has the necessary facilities to support economic growth and attract merchants.
Beyond infrastructure, capacity analysts assess the business landscape to promote a balanced and diverse range of services within the Black Wall Street district. They focus on fostering collaboration among merchants to create a synergistic environment where businesses benefit from shared foot traffic and coordinated marketing efforts. This ensures that the Black Wall Street district offers a variety of products and services, attracting a broader customer base.
Looking to the future, capacity analysts plan for sustainable growth, considering factors like population trends, eco-friendly infrastructure, and renewable energy options. Their forward-thinking strategies ensure that the Black Wall Street district remains viable as consumer needs change, helping merchants and the community adapt over time. Ultimately, they lay the groundwork for a successful, resilient Black Wall Street district.
A feasibility study for the Black Wall Street district development is essential for guiding the project and ensuring its viability. It starts with a preliminary district development software that assesses profitability, estimates costs, and identifies risks, saving time and resources. Concept testing follows, allowing the team to simulate project designs, avoid cost overruns, and minimize errors before construction begins.
A thorough study boosts confidence in moving forward, validating market demand and compensating for a lack of experience. Financially, the study outlines capital requirements, ensuring proper funding to avoid undercapitalization and cash flow issues. It also aids in presenting a clear, credible plan to potential investors and banks. Aligning with broader economic tools such as Tax Increment Financing (TIF), New Market Tax Credits (NMTC), and Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), the study helps the district meet objectives like community revitalization and economic empowerment. Key milestones include establishing the district’s official name, identifying participants, defining boundaries, and assessing land use, transportation, and safety conditions.
Ultimately, this feasibility study provides a comprehensive roadmap for the successful development and revitalization of the Black Wall Street district.
Below is an example of legislation used to develop the Stony Island Black Wall Street district.
WHEREAS, Chicago is the third largest city in the United States and a thriving center of business, industry, and culture; and
WHEREAS, The Chicago Urban League has stated that "Chicago will be the new Black Wall Street"; Stony Island Avenue is one commercial strip that has 80% or more businesses owned by African Americans; it is a prime example of a Black Wall Street district in Chicago; and
WHEREAS, Since the early 1940s, African-American businesses have thrived on South Stony Island Avenue, bringing quality products and services to the community; in subsequent years, these business owners saw a growth in their profits as they were able to sustain a comfortable way of life for themselves and their families; with the downturn in the economy over recent years, some of the businesses that once flourished on Stony Island Avenue are now facing financial difficulties; and
WHEREAS, It has been determined, by the members of the Black Wall Street-Chicago, that the community will utilize the template of Black wall Street Oakland and will help build the business capacity of African-American businesses along Stony Island Avenue in Chicago; and
WHEREAS, History will show that Black Wall Street-Chicago continues the rich historical tradition of growth and prosperity with the original "Black Wall Street District" in Tulsa, Oklahoma; during the early 1900s, the area reportedly used "black dollars" instead of U.S. currency to do business inside the district; in 1921, the Tulsa Race Riot, one of the nation's worse acts of racial violence, occurred; many African-American business owners and the residents of Greenwood were burned out, shot, kidnapped, and killed in the early hours while they slept; the neighborhood has been restored and is now a part of the Greenwood Historical District; and
WHEREAS, Black Wall Street-Chicago recognizes the potential to recreate on Stony Island Avenue in Chicago the positive aspects of the historic Black Wall Street in Tulsa; through the organization's mission to sustain and increase black businesses, Stony Island Avenue is achieving stability and is one of many business districts that has African-American ownership in parity with its population; and
WHEREAS, Stony Island Avenue is currently undergoing a revitalization to cultivate a pedestrian-friendly, urban experience on the southeast side of Chicago, similar to the makeover in the southern portion of downtown Chicago; the Black Wall Street District on Stony Island Avenue includes the #1 African-American female accounting firm in the nation, a waffle house, a printing company, barbeque and soul food restaurants, women and men's clothing and shoe stores, barber shops and beauty salons, among many other flourishing businesses; and
WHEREAS, A comprehensive plan to help sustain black-owned businesses has and continues to be developed by Black Wall Street-Chicago; the plan continues to be developed during weekly meetings of the group and during Black Wall Street Economic Summits, which have been held quarterly since March of 2007; therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-SIXTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we recognize Stony Island Avenue as a Black Wall Street District in the City of Chicago; and be it further
RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the members of Black Wall Street-Chicago as a symbol of our esteem and respect.
The objective of this proposal is to create a strategic partnership between Black Wall Street and businesses in the district to enhance and protect Black-owned business value. This collaboration seeks to ensure that the needs of stakeholders are addressed, while fostering economic growth, leadership, and community development. Black Wall Street acts as a platform for Black businesses to unite, share challenges, and advocate for necessary policy changes at local and state levels.
The mission of Black Wall Street is to sustain and grow Black-owned businesses through advocacy, economic development, and community engagement. Regular summits and meetings provide opportunities for businesses to discuss challenges and potential solutions, fostering collaboration between for-profit and nonprofit sectors. This proactive approach aims to highlight the importance of supporting Black businesses within the broader business community.
The strategic plan emphasizes addressing challenges, enhancing leadership, and forming partnerships to drive economic development. Key initiatives include refining the Black Wall Street mission, strengthening business capacity, and promoting diversity efforts. By engaging political leaders, retaining partnerships, and attracting new opportunities, Black Wall Street will empower Black-owned businesses to thrive in the district.
Lastly, five core strategies are proposed to fulfill this vision: mission refinement, leadership development, stakeholder engagement, community development, and consumer empowerment. These initiatives will ensure Black-owned businesses remain sustainable and continue to positively impact the community, aligning with the long-term goals of Black Wall Street.
The Act mandates the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to establish and oversee the Black Wall Street Act. The primary objective of this program is to facilitate the development of Black Wall Street Districts through the provision of loans and financial assistance. These districts are intended to serve as hubs of African American entrepreneurship and economic activity. The DCEO's role is critical in ensuring that designated communities receive the resources needed to foster the growth of local businesses, with a specific focus on those that are African American-owned and operated. By creating these business districts, the program aims to stimulate local economies, create jobs, and increase wealth within historically underserved communities.
Program Eligibility and Loan Fund Disbursement
The Act provides specific guidelines regarding the eligibility criteria for businesses and municipalities that wish to participate in the Black Wall Street Act. These criteria are essential to ensure that loan funds are allocated to entities that meet the program’s objectives. Furthermore, the Act specifies how these funds should be disbursed to eligible businesses, ensuring transparency and fairness in the distribution process. The eligibility requirements could include factors such as the business’s location within a designated community, its ownership structure, and its potential for contributing to the local economy. By laying out these guidelines, the Act seeks to ensure that the financial assistance is channeled toward entities that will effectively contribute to the economic development of Black Wall Street Business Districts.
Municipal Investment Programs for Loan Fund Disbursement
Each municipality that receives a loan under the Black Wall Street Act is required to establish a municipal investment program. The purpose of this program is to ensure that loan funds are disbursed to qualified African American business entities and individuals. This directive emphasizes local control and decision-making, as it empowers municipalities to distribute the funds to businesses that are best positioned to contribute to the creation of Black Wall Street Business Districts. These districts are expected to become centers of African American commerce, culture, and entrepreneurship, and the municipal investment programs are a crucial mechanism for directing resources to businesses that will thrive in these environments.
Use of Loan Funds for Bonds and Construction
The Act also allows for loan funds to be used for investment purposes, including the issuance or sale of bonds. These bonds are specifically intended to finance the construction of Black Wall Street Business Districts and any related matters. This provision enables municipalities and businesses to leverage loan funds to secure additional financing through bonds, thus expanding the scope and scale of development within these districts. By allowing bond issuance, the Act facilitates long-term investments in the infrastructure necessary for creating vibrant, sustainable business districts. This can include everything from commercial real estate to public amenities that enhance the overall appeal and functionality of the districts.
Public Database of African American Contractors and Engineers
In an effort to support African American professionals, the Act requires the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to compile and make publicly available a database of qualified African American contractors and engineers. This database serves a dual purpose: it provides a valuable resource for municipalities and businesses looking to hire skilled professionals for the construction and development of Black Wall Street Business Districts, and it promotes African American participation in key economic sectors. By ensuring that contractors and engineers from the African American community have access to these opportunities, the Act fosters greater inclusion and representation in the industries that will shape the future of these districts.
Black Wall Street Investment Hub
To further support African American businesses, the Act requires the Department to create and administer a Black Wall Street Investment Hub. This hub will provide a range of specified assistance to African American business entities and individuals, helping them to establish and grow businesses within the Black Wall Street Business Districts. The assistance could include business development services, financial literacy programs, mentorship, access to investors, and other resources designed to help entrepreneurs succeed. By centralizing these services in an investment hub, the Act ensures that African American business owners have access to the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in competitive markets.
Adoption of Administrative Rules
The Act grants the Department the authority to adopt administrative rules necessary for implementing the Black Wall Street Act. These rules will provide the operational framework for the program, outlining procedures for application, fund disbursement, reporting requirements, and compliance measures. The administrative rules ensure that the program is managed efficiently and transparently, while also providing flexibility to adapt to the evolving needs of the businesses and communities it serves. This provision highlights the importance of governance and oversight in ensuring that the program’s objectives are met.
Creation of the Black Wall Street Fund
The Act also establishes the Black Wall Street Fund as a special fund within the state treasury. This fund is designated for specific purposes, primarily to support the financial needs of the Black Wall Street Act. By creating a dedicated fund, the Act ensures that there is a consistent and reliable source of financial resources to support the program’s long-term sustainability. The fund will be used to provide loans, issue bonds, and finance other activities essential to the development of Black Wall Street Business Districts. This financial structure is crucial for maintaining the momentum of the program and ensuring that it continues to benefit African American businesses and communities.
Definitions and Conforming Changes
Lastly, the Act defines key terms relevant to the implementation of the Black Wall Street Act, such as what constitutes a "Black Wall Street Business District," "qualified African American business entity," and other crucial definitions. These definitions provide clarity and ensure that all stakeholders have a common understanding of the program’s goals and requirements. The Act also makes conforming changes to other related laws or regulations to ensure consistency and alignment with the new provisions introduced by the Black Wall Street Act.