Re: Introduction of a Jelly Maker

AD,

For the most part, I agree with your definitions of Tree Shaker and Jelly Maker, however ideally I see the difference as being less philosophical and more practical. That means that Tree Shakers and Jelly Makers just have different characteristics that make them better suited for either role. For example, a coach chooses positions on a basketball team based on the characteristics and skills necessary to execute the specific tasks of that position. A point guard is usually the quickest and smallest player with great vision, ball handling, and long-distance shooting . Meanwhile a center is the tallest, strongest player with a talent for rebounding and shot blocking. It's not so much that their philosophies on the game are different; but rather their talents are better suited for different roles. Similarly, I see the Tree Shaker as someone with the ability to create and articulate broad visions, to comprehend and connect large ideas, and sway and infiltrate the powerful and the influential. Meanwhile, Jelly Makers possess strong organizational skills, ability to motivate individuals to act around a common cause, and the empathy and recognition to apply broad principles to specific situations.

In a perfect world, Tree Shakers do not reject all grassroots or community-based actions, and Jelly Makers do not deny the need to harness political and economic power to help achieve progress. In my formulation, neither the Tree Shaker nor the Jelly Maker can be most effective unless they recognize the need to work together and in concert. After all, both the Tree Shaker and the Jelly Maker are essential in producing the final product: in this case full equality and opportunity for black folks.

However, where I think we might disagree AD, if we haven't already is whether it is the Tree Shaker or the Jelly Maker who should lead the team. In my perspective, and maybe I am biased here, based upon the fact that I see my skills aligning more with that of Tree Shaker, it is the Tree Shaker who leads. Due to their focus on the larger picture and their vantage point that enables them to connect wide and disparate moving pieces, the Tree Shaker is in the best position to develop the appropriate vision that leads to progress. The Jelly Maker helps inform that vision by providing vital information to the Tree Shaker and then leads its implementation once it has been developed, articulated, and funded (either financially, politically, or both.) As someone who aspires to be both an intellectual and a visionary, I am slightly obsessed with the power of ideas. Therefore I believe our movement must start with big ideas, and subsequently the Tree Shakers who will develop them. What you think AD? (although I have a feeling I already know...).

Best,
FTS