Are the Wakandans Wrong to Distance Themselves from the Struggles of Black People?

It is a compelling argument to posit that the Wakandans, despite their seemingly advanced and resource-rich nation, may be characterized as culturally and historically distant from the broader struggles of black people around the globe. This sentiment is particularly applicable when considering their relationships with colonizers and artifacts, as well as their historical inaction in supporting African nations during critical times.

The Wakandans and Colonialism

During the colonial era, the Wakandans maintained a strategic isolationist stance, effectively remaining external to the exploitation and oppression faced by other African nations. The irony here is stark; while the vast majority suffered under colonial rule, the Wakandans thrived in their technological and economic advancement, all because of their invaluable resource, vibranium. This isolation has sheltered them from the harsh realities experienced by many other African countries, leading to a noticeable discrepancy between their societal structure and the struggles faced by others.

In a pivotal scene in the film, Black Panther, Shuri, the tech-savvy sister of T'Challa, interacts with a colonizer. Shuri, in her remarks, addresses the man as a colonizer, sparking a debate about the Wakandans' own historical characterization as oppressors. This raises an important question: why should they distance themselves from the struggles of black people if they themselves have never faced many of the same hardships?

Selfishness and Self-Preservation

The Wakandans' actions during the trans-Atlantic slave trade are particularly scrutinized. Faced with the moral imperative to aid their African brothers and sisters, the Wakandans chose not to. Their inaction can be attributed to a desire for self-preservation, ensuring their technological and economic progress continued unimpeded. This decision was purely pragmatic, driven by the need to protect their nation's advancement.

Similarly, their involvement with Benin artifacts further adds to this narrative. When Killmonger claims that the artifacts are "Wakandan," attributing them to Vibranium, it appears highly suspicious. Given their isolationist nature, how did Wakandan artifacts find their way into Benin, only to be stolen by British soldiers? This raises doubts about the Wakandans' genuine connection to the continent and their artifacts.

Unequivocal Hypocrisy and Victimhood

The character of Killmonger serves as a stark reminder of the Wakandans' hypocrisy. His claim that the artifacts should be taken back questions the ethical implications of Wakanda's isolation. When the museum director insists that the work is not for sale, Killmonger's retort is both incisive and incendiary. He challenges the very idea of how these artifacts came to be, questioning the morality of their acquisition and the broader historical context of colonizers and the stolen treasures of Africa.

Killmonger's actions in the museum, where he poisons a curator and orchestrates the theft of a Vibranium artifact, highlight a deeper issue: the Wakandans' self-perception as victims. This self-victimization masks their historical responsibility and ongoing detachment from the true struggles of many black people. It is a posture that refuses to acknowledge the shared experiences of oppression and exploitation that affect a vast swath of the African continent.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Wakandans' tendency to distance themselves from the broader struggles of black people is a complex issue. While their technological advancements and isolation have undoubtedly shielded them from certain historical traumas, this detachment is troubling. The question remains: can a nation so intimately connected to resources stolen from Africa, and so disconnected from the continent’s struggles, truly claim to be a beacon of morality and support for black people around the world?

The Wakandans must grapple with their role in the broader narrative of African history and their responsibility to support their fellow black people. Only then can they truly justify their stance and the pedestal on which they have placed their nation.