Warning: Some spoilers will be included in this, as I am analyzing the themes of the movie and what we can take away from it.

Black panther is more than just a superhero blockbuster film. It’s a momentous moment for black culture and history. The lessons we can take from this film doesn’t just apply to black Americans, but African descendants around the globe.

Something I really love about this movie is the prosperity and success of the fictional nation Wakanda. This ultra-advanced society represents what black people could really accomplish. Yes, the futuristic technology is far fetched, but the idea itself is possible. Wakanda shows us what can be done when black people come together and work as one. In many countries, blacks are suffering. In America, many of us are confined in “hoods” and run-down neighborhoods. This does not have to be the case.

The reason we are suffering like this is the fact that we won’t help each other and grow as a people. N’jobu (Killmonger’s father) betrayed his own country, because he was sick of Wakanda doing nothing as blacks around the world would suffer and die. If African descendants around the world want to succeed, we must first start by helping each other.  If we build up our people and grow together, than we can succeed in this ever-changing world. Imagine, predominantly black neighborhoods with upscale housing, clean streets and low crime rates. Communities where our kids receive the best education and you don’t have to worry about being robbed on the way home.

Some people say “black people can change they just don’t want to” or “I don’t see why Africa just doesn’t advance like the rest of us,” but these people don’t know the whole story. Another key message in “Black Panther” is the fact that we need strong leaders to bring us together in times of crisis. Nothing is accomplished without some sort of leader. Anytime great milestones were achieved in black history were when we had great leaders. People such as Martin Luther King, Malcolm X or Abraham Lincoln. If blacks wish to truly thrive, we must have people willing to step up and lead us into prosperity. A good leader can bring us together and have us work hard and grow despite our differences. I’m bringing up this point, because maybe you or someone you know has the potential to be a great leader. With the proper guidance, we can enter a golden age beyond the expectations of anyone.

Many people tell me that it’s “just a movie” and it’s not that deep, but it is. Our world is in a state of crisis. Something has to be done sooner rather than later. If you want to keep waiting for the “right time” to act, you will be waiting until the day you die.  There is no right time, now is the time. You can make the change, so can your friends and your family. Complaining about the state of black people will not do any good. Let your voice be heard, Step up and take action and I promise people will follow you. As President John F. Kennedy said; “If not us, then who? If not now, then when?”