Black tax: Generational curse or blessing?

Black tax is a concept that frequently sparks debate; some people perceive it as an imposition, while others see it as an expression of ubuntu, the African principle of community duty and connection. “I am because you are’’. This a phrase is common in the African Community. The spirit of ubuntu is what makes the collectivistic culture in the African community. Most people are raised to embrace this concept. Black tax has impacted a lot of the black working class psychologically, emotionally, and economically. We examine the intricacies of the black tax in this piece, looking at its drawbacks as well as how it might help black communities develop a feeling of unity.

The term “black tax” describes the financial obligations that members of black communities frequently encounter when it comes to providing for their immediate, extended, or community members. This phenomenon is common in many African cultures, where those who succeed financially are sometimes expected to distribute their wealth to less fortunate members of their family or group. In Zimbabwe these obligations are mainly placed on the eldest child. They are usually expected to take their siblings through school and help them financially as much as possible. Parents also expect to be taken care of by their kids(too informal change to offspring or chdn) as a sign of appreciation for raising them.

#The Burden of Black Tax

Various conversations have taken place on different social media platforms. One day I met a guy who was drowning in debt and he exclaimed ‘If my parents had planned their lives financially, I would have been far in life’. This statement made me think a lot about the impact that black tax has on our generation, thus I pondered on the question is it really a curse or a blessing. The obligation to provide financial support to family members or community members may impede an individual’s capacity to accumulate savings for personal necessities, such housing, education, or retirement. This cycle of financial reliance can prolong poverty in families and communities, making it challenging for people to escape the grip of financial difficulties thus the black tax is sometimes seen as a generational curse.

The impact of black tax is more than just financial. Individuals may also feel emotionally pressured and obligated. The expectation of providing financial support for family members can lead to feelings of guilt, stress, and even anger. These emotions can strain relationships and have an influence on overall well-being, leaving one feeling imprisoned in a never-ending cycle of financial responsibility.

Women in the younger generation who enter the job market frequently suffer additional financial pressure as a result of the Black Tax. They are expected to pay a portion of their earnings to support their families, which may limit their ability to save for their own needs or invest for the future. Women’s chances for job advancement may be hampered by the financial requirements imposed by the Black Tax. They might be forced to put their family’s needs ahead of their own academic or professional advancement, which could result in a vicious circle (cycle) of restricted economic empowerment (poverty).

Men’s relationships and social standing in Zimbabwe can be impacted by the expectation that they will support their families financially. Family ties may get strained or family members may stop trusting them if they don’t live up to these standards and restrictions. For men who pay the Black tax, the pressure to meet these commitments while also pursuing personal financial objectives can be emotionally and psychologically taxing.

However, since black cultures have a strong feeling of solidarity and community, the black tax can also be considered as a blessing. The custom of distributing riches among relatives or fellow citizens is based on the principles of altruism, empathy, and reciprocity. People can help elevate their loved ones and improve the general welfare of their community by making financial contributions to the well-being of others. This makes the black tax a social responsibility and a means of giving back to others who have helped and encouraged one’s achievement.
From an Ubuntu standpoint, the black tax is an example of this ideology in action. It symbolises a shared obligation to guarantee the prosperity and well-being of the entire community. People keep their personal circles and, by extension, the larger community, growing and stable by providing financial assistance to family members and community members. This attitude of ubuntu strengthens social ties and encourages a sense of shared purpose by fostering a spirit of reciprocity and solidarity.

#Navigating the impact of Black tax for the greater good

#Breaking the Cycle: Addressing the long-term effects of the Black tax requires breaking the cycle of dependency. Individuals can lessen the need for continuous financial support by empowering their families to become self-sufficient through investments in education, business, and skill development.

#Redefining Ubuntu: Although Ubuntu places a strong emphasis on group responsibility, it is crucial to reinterpret it in a way that encourages individual development in addition to community assistance. This means acknowledging that people ought to be allowed to follow their own goals and desires while yet making a positive impact on their communities.

#Honest Dialogue: Honest and transparent discussions regarding the Black tax in families, communities, and society at large can promote understanding and lead to solutions that benefit all parties. Promoting open communication enables people to voice their worries, share their goals, and work together to discover solutions that strike a balance between individual development and group support.

#Financial Planning and Investment: Encouraging individuals to engage in financial planning and investment strategies can help them navigate the obligations of Black tax more effectively. This includes setting financial goals, creating budgets, exploring investment opportunities, and seeking professional guidance to maximize their financial resources.

#Support Networks and Communities: Establishing support networks and communities where individuals can share their experiences, seek advice, and find emotional support can be instrumental in managing the challenges associated with Black tax. These networks can provide a sense of solidarity and create spaces for individuals to discuss strategies for balancing personal aspirations and familial obligations.

#Education on Financial Literacy: Incorporating financial literacy education into school curricula and community programs can equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions. Understanding concepts such as budgeting, saving, investing, and debt management can empower individuals to navigate the complexities of Black tax more effectively.

#Celebrating Success Stories: Highlighting and celebrating success stories of individuals who have managed to strike a balance between personal growth and community support can inspire others and provide guidance on navigating the challenges of Black tax. Sharing these stories can foster a sense of hope and possibility, encouraging individuals to pursue their dreams while still contributing to their communities.

The black tax is a complex phenomenon with responsibilities and opportunities for community support modelled after Ubuntu. It can be emotionally and financially taxing, but it also symbolises our interconnectedness and our shared need to support one another. Black taxation can be used to advance community development by changing the way people think about it and encouraging financial empowerment. In the end, understanding the actual meaning of Ubuntu within black communities and negotiating the difficulties of the black tax require striking a balance between individual goals and group support.

The writer, Melody Mhishi is a Specialist Wellness Counsellor and has extensive experience in mental health issues. She is an  MSc. Counselling Psychology student at Great Zimbabwe University.