I have witnessed a similarity between the overwhelming majority of those who wear the mantle of H.N.I.C. (Head Negro In Charge) and the house Negroes of slavery days. They both have been appointed by “Old Massa.” In my estimation, the majority of those who wear the title of H.N.I.C. are often disappointing and oft times a disgrace to the Black communities.
As a rule when we discuss H.N.I.C.s it is usually great warriors of yesteryear or those who resided in other parts of the country. However, I have been fortunate to have known, marched with, politicked with and was an active participant in creating positive change at many levels. The real tragedy is that a number of these genuine H.N.I.C.s that we, the people, anointed are deceased. I will always remember Mal Goode, Robert Lavelle, William P. Young, William and Charles Beck who ran the recreation center at Kay Boys Club, Carl Redwood, Jim Robinson at Hill City, Mr. Dean at Ammon Center, Jake Williams, Dock Fielder Jr., Chief William “Muggsy” Moore, Atty. Byrd R. Brown, Harvey Adams Jr., Bernard Jones, founder of Poise Foundation (the first Black foundation in America), Herman Reid and Allegheny County Councilman William “Bill” Robinson. If those who currently have been appointed or named as H.N.I.C. have a real relationship with “Old Massa” then ask them to explain why they have been unable to develop a plan to hire Black police officers in the City of Pittsburgh or why only 2 percent of Allegheny County police officers are Black. Ask them to explain why billions of dollars are being spent throughout Allegheny County and unbelievable sums of money are taxpayer dollars, but Blacks are denied their fair share.
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