My Story, My Stand

I am Thomas Ford, a 54 years old, a U.S. Navy veteran, and someone who has worn many hats in this life. From Burger King to Waffle House, from running a media company to owning a theater, I have tried and failed more times than I can count. But I never quit. I stayed true to the facts and pushed past the fiction.

I have always believed in people, even when people tore me down. I built for others, only to watch them tear down what I created for them. I have helped many, and in return I have received very little. My first question has always been, “What can I help you with?” rather than, “What can you do for me?”

In today’s climate of pro-Black and pro-White, I have chosen to remain neutral. I stand on common sense, strategic thinking, and hope, hope that somehow, some way, we can find unity and common ground. One America. One people. United, not divided. Bringing peace and prosperity, not chaos and destruction.

While nations like Russia, China, Venezuela, and Iran sit back and enjoy the chaos within our borders, people like me suffer the most. Because I do not thrive in destruction. I do not feed off disruption. I do not use division as a stepping stone.

My Story, My Stand is being biracial, to me, is proof that two people from two different cultures and backgrounds can come together and create something rooted in love. That is my truth, and that is why I cannot stand fully on one side or the other.

So while many wave banners of pro-Black or pro-White, I am asking only for understanding, kindness, compassion, and unity. Because Russia and China do not care if we destroy ourselves. But we should care. Whether you are Black or White, Jew or Gentile, we are still American.

Many people say I am “pro-Black” because I am focused on building for the Black community. But the truth is, I am not just building for the Black community. I am building for the most underserved community in America, helping because they too are Americans.

If I take the time to build, to help create structures that lift up those who have been overlooked, then I am not separating myself into one side or another. I am working to make America better and stronger for everyone.

Just like the Black Lives Matter movement says, all lives matter when Black lives matter. I believe that fully. All lives cannot matter until Black lives matter. And it is my responsibility to make sure that Black lives and Black businesses are valued.

If others will not do it, then I will. If others do not believe in it, I still do. Because only when Black businesses matter will all small businesses truly matter.

And those are the facts.