December 8th, 2006
Blacks in Paris
As blacks in business we need to consider ourselves as citizens of the world. This is a global economy and one in which we should think big. Many of the biggest names in African American history, in an effort to excape oppression in the US,lived in Europe and developed a tradition and love affair with the city of Paris.
I have friends that are working in other countries and recieving experiences that hopefully will help their careers. I know of black families, who’s children have seen the world along with them. Gone are the days when black travel meant Grey Hound Bus only. I have had the good fortune to manage global business for sales and marketing for 2 different companies.
Students should consider, international internships,corporate employees, should consider, international assignments. Business owners should consider global business growth opportunties.Families should consider international investments and vacations.
Yesterday, I recieved a great comment from Julia Browne regarding Josephine Baker. Please look for comments under Role Models. Julia’s comment exhibited an energy and passion that was a hallmark of Ms Baker’s career. I visited Ms. Browne’s web site and liked it so much I want to have you see it as well. It describes Black America’s impact on Paris. My wife and I spent a week in Paris 18 months ago but did not know of this tour, started by Ms Browne in 1994. Please see the link below.
December 10th, 2006 at 6:48 pm
Hi Jim! Excellent post but maybe a little bit too romantic. Sure, black people in Paris or France seem to be less segragated than they are still in the US. “Seem” as it is hard for them to find a suitable job, and the more graduated they are, the more difficult. Odd. There are few black entrepreneurs and even fewer black people in the medias. Well, I do not know if this comment will contribute to your post… The history and background of our two countries are different. France seems to be an open society, it is not.. and the experience of black musicians who made it in Paris cannot be extended to the whole community.
Love from Paris !
December 10th, 2006 at 11:23 pm
Hi Jim,
Thanks so much for taking the time to visit my website and for the comments on my post. Always glad to spread the word about our role models, and while I do the tours I always feel these extraordinary presences with me as I recounted their stories.
If you and your wife get back to Paris, let me know and I’ll be glad to take you on a tour.
Cheers,
Julia
December 11th, 2006 at 12:04 pm
I have found peoples of the world are facinated with the plight of black Americans. In Paris people were very nice and all spoke english, all we had to do was mention George Bush and the French made sure their opinions were understood. Many of the Cab drivers listened to jazz on the radio. Thank you for your comments
April 25th, 2007 at 10:33 pm
I agree completely that studying overseas and working overseas are a great way to add value to a resume, for example learning another language and becoming more competent to deal with international clients and aspects of a business.
For example, anyone who plans to practice law, or another professional service for the public in an urban area should do a year of undergraduate study in a Spanish-speaking country, since the inability to speak Spanish will limit job opportunities and clients in the future. See my article, “Can Black Students Afford NOT to Study Overseas/”
April 26th, 2007 at 10:35 am
Esq Holland, Thank you for adding the value of your experiences for our readers. I agree with your advice. We America are losing touch with some great opportunities by not knowing languages. I recall a time in Geneva, I hoped in a cab and talked to the cabbie. He said he did not speak English, He spoke, French, German,Italian, Swiss and Russian. We could not talk because I, the international businessman only spoke English. I will read your post