The world is poorer for the loss of the architect of modern music and one of the most influential figures in shaping the foundation of American popular culture; but it is far richer for the impact he had in life.

James Brown, one of the greatest symbols of black resilience and genius, left this earth on Christmas Day. And God saw fit to pay the greatest tribute to his life by blessing Oprah Winfrey with the vision and the resources to be in Africa on that momentous day, accompanied by some of the major African American artists in this country. She planted the seed for the next generation of African success stories by following in Brown’s legacy and using her resources to give back to all African people. During his lifetime, James Brown created all kinds of opportunities for African Americans. Now, Oprah Winfrey has returned to the Motherland to create opportunities for African women.

James Brown knew that our future progress and dignity as black people would never materialize until we recaptured black self-love, love for Africa and an abiding faith in something bigger than you and me. As African people, our place of birth is incidental. We are all causalities of colonial rule and slavery.

The life’s work of James Brown and Oprah reminds us that we judge the strength of a culture by the strength of the women in that society. The Godfather of Soul said it best: “This is a man’s world, but it wouldn’t be nothing without a woman or a girl.”

Let us rejoice in 2007 knowing that in spite of the systemic obstacles that rip away at the lifeblood of black folks around the globe, still we rise and demonstrate to the world through the courage of warriors like James Brown and Oprah Winfrey that we don’t need anybody to give us anything. Open up the door and we will get it ourselves.