A Chicago Defender editorial defends James Meeks, chastises black clergymen.

The meeting between the Rev. James Meeks and Clergy Speaks International on Monday was supposed to be an opportunity to discuss the state senator’s possible third party bid for governor. Instead, sources in attendance say it was more along the lines of a session with the state Democratic Party.

Many of the Black pastors reached the conclusion that a run by Meeks – one of their own – could somehow damage the Democratic Party’s election efforts in November. Well, so what? Can we drive through Roseland, Englewood, Bronzeville and any number of other communities and visibly see what Democratic loyalty has done for African Americans?

Pastors often preach that if their congregations tithe, then God will honor obedience. So how have Democrats honored Black folks with their religious devotion to the party of FDR?

What Meeks is asking – which is fundamental to politics – is that African Americans must get something in return for their vote. Forget the last election. We must have something in return for what is going to happen in November.

Meeks recognizes that the last thing Gov. Rod Blagojevich and his supporters want is to see a dramatic drop in the Black vote. Demanding action from his office is necessary to get it. What matters to us the most is education and employment. When Meeks declares African Americans must get an urban agenda, then he’s right.

The Dems have just two options: take Meeks seriously and pony up some resources or ignore him altogether and tell him to put up or shut up.

If they do the latter, it could cost them dearly in the fall. Hopefully, Clergy Speaks International will find some backbone and stand with Meeks and demand our fair share of the state’s resources for all our people.