The Ballot or the Bullet

Introduction

• Speaker addresses audience, including friends and adversaries.
• Discusses the theme: "The Ballot or the Bullet."
• Clarifies personal position: still a Muslim, leader of Muslim Mosque Incorporated in Harlem.

Religion and Politics

• References Christian ministers involved in political struggles: Adam Clayton Powell, Dr. King, Reverend Glamison, Reverend Cleve.
• States religion is a personal matter and should be kept separate from politics.
• Advocates for black nationalism as a political, economic, and social philosophy.

Political Philosophy of Black Nationalism

• Black man should control politics in their community.
• Criticizes white political influence in black communities.
• Emphasizes need for political maturity and re-education within the black community.

Economic Philosophy of Black Nationalism

• Encourages black ownership and control of community economies.
• Critiques spending money outside the black community, leading to economic decline.
• Advocates for supporting black businesses and creating employment within the community.

Self-Help Philosophy

• Emphasizes self-help as critical to solving problems.
• Black nationalism as a unifying philosophy, compatible with various religious and civic affiliations.

Nationalism and Historical Context

• Nationalism as a driving force for independence in Africa and Asia.
• Critiques America's colonial power and hypocrisy.
• Describes "second-class citizenship" as modern-day slavery.

Political Landscape in 1964

• Describes political disillusionment and demand for action.
• Criticizes both Democrats and Republicans for failing to address black issues.
• Highlights the strategic importance of the black vote.

Criticism of Political System

• Describes ongoing political manipulation, especially gerrymandering.
• Criticizes Northern Democrats and Southern Dixiecrats for failing black Americans.
• Explains that unity and black nationalism are key to overcoming political challenges.

Revolution and Action

• Discusses historical examples of bloody revolutions.
• Urges for a revolution, potentially bloodless, by giving black Americans their rights.
• Emphasizes that non-violence has never historically resulted in revolution.

Conclusion

• Government conspiracy against black rights highlighted.
• Advocates for taking the US government to the UN on grounds of human rights violations.
• Calls for black unity and black nationalism as a comprehensive solution.
• Encourages joining organizations that uplift the black community.

Call to Action

• Invites participation in organizations promoting black nationalism.
• Recommends choosing religious or civic organizations focused on black empowerment.