During my early years as an activist, I believed that boycotting was the only way to amplify black voices. However, as I’ve matured and studied effective negotiation strategies, I’ve come to realize that open communication is actually the most powerful tool we have.

In the black community, the Montgomery bus boycott, led by Martin Luther King Jr., is often cited as the quintessential example of boycotting. What many overlook is that this boycott was not a spontaneous act; it was meticulously planned and strategically executed. A closer examination reveals numerous attempts to generate media attention prior to the boycott’s success, highlighting the pivotal role of Rosa Parks. Interestingly, reports show that Rosa Parks and her husband owned a car, which complicates the narrative around the boycott and raises questions about its broader implications.

While the boycott aimed to create an economic impact on Montgomery, we must also consider its social consequences for the black community today. For instance, many young people now prefer to sit at the back of the bus — a stark contrast to the aspirations of those who fought for equality in the 1950s and ‘60s. Similarly, the N-word, once considered taboo, has become commonplace among some in the community, reflecting a troubling shift in values.

This leads me to critically examine the effectiveness of boycotts. Are they truly beneficial for our community, or do they merely provide a platform for certain leaders to exploit the vulnerable? This past February 28, black pastors organized a one-day boycott of Target and Walmart. This boycott was poorly organized and, in my view, inadvertently harmed the very black communities it aimed to support. Did anyone consider the economic impact on black employees who depend on those jobs? What about the investments these companies have made in our neighborhoods over the years?

The expanding list of companies targeted by boycotts raises significant concerns. If this trend continues, we may find ourselves with fewer businesses to support or work for. Instead of resorting to emotional reactions, it might be more effective to engage in constructive dialogue with these companies. Promoting a boycott mentality could lead to a future where even black churches become targets of similar actions.

This is what I call the Boycott Trap! By failing to engage in open communication and by prioritizing boycotts, we risk isolating ourselves and undermining our collective power. It’s time to rethink our approach and strive for a more constructive path forward.