Akwanza Mangum

Title

Akwanza Mangum (Abstract)

Interviewee/ Narrator

Akwanza Mangum

Akwanza Mangum

Interviewer

Naeem Mangum

Date

November 26, 2023

Location of the Interview

Dunwoody, GA

Length

48 minutes, 8 seconds

Abstract

Akwanza Mangum is a part owner in an electrical contracting company living in Dunwoody, Georgia who grew up in Detroit, Michigan. Mangum shares his perspective on the Black Lives Matter movement informed by his experiences as an African-American and a member of the Baha'i faith. Mangum first learned of Black Lives Matter around the time of Trayvon Martin's murder and George Zimmerman's trial in 2013. He mentions that Black Lives Matter has an overall positive intent to highlight racial injustice, but believes its impact relies on ongoing consultation, reflection and avoiding political associations. Mangum feels Black Lives Matter resonates most with younger generations who instinctively question the status quo.
Throughout the discussion, Mangum references his father's work establishing a nonprofit in order to uplift their community in Detroit and his current efforts empowering youth by fostering spiritual capacities. As a Baha'i, unity and recognition of shared nobility across identities guides his activity. Additional key details include Mangum's diverse Detroit upbringing and early
intercultural exposure, his view that capitalism and materialism fuel societal imbalances, and his conviction that affecting systemic change requires elevation of both material and spiritual well-being. He measures Black Lives Matter's success in awareness-raising while acknowledging needed growth through reflection and consultation. Ultimately, Mangum feels Black Lives Matter must focus on moral principles, not temporary politics. He remains optimistic that grassroots spiritual education initiatives can adjust perceptions and treatment of Black lives regardless of Black Lives Matter's future as a movement. This interview shows one man’s spiritual approach to racial concepts in the United States.