Why do we withhold our support when it comes to the endeavours of those around us?

If we’re happy to support the work of those we don’t know, why aren’t we keeping that same energy for those around us?

With the passing of Nipsey Hussle, there was palpable recognition of a talented and righteous individual; one who tirelessly gave back to uplift and build his community. Across traditional and social media, there was an abundance of praise for his social entrepreneurship and community activism. Even those not familiar with his music came to realise how significant his impact was.

Nipsey’s death also ignited the conversation about how much we endorse and promote those around us, instead diverting our favour to those we’ve never met and have no association with. Nipsey undoubtedly received kudos from his community. But how many would have shunned the opportunity to patronise his clothing store, The Marathon Clothing, instead opting to buy from a mainstream store or designed retailer that didn’t create jobs or contribute to the local economy? And more to the point, run by someone or a company that they had no connection with whatsoever.

The reluctance to get behind those we know and those around us is a worrying trait in society. More so because we instead often reserve that for those who we don’t know or those who are far removed from our lives and experiences.