The document discusses the history of the diamond industry and exploitation of resources in Africa. It notes that while diamonds were initially seen as symbols of love due to marketing campaigns, their mining has financially benefited companies like De Beers and harmed indigenous Africans. It argues that all diamonds mined in Africa through this system of exploitation, including those now sold as "conflict-free", should be considered "blood diamonds" since they do not benefit local populations.
15. Oppenheimer ’s thinking was.. “ The only way to increase the value of diamonds is to make them scarce, that is to reduce production” His philosophy, along with the racist ideology that went along with Europeans like Rhodes, has created the environment in which the diamond trade exist today in Africa. This environment of exploitation exist in both “conflict” and “non-conflict” areas of Africa
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24. DYING FOR DIAMONDS Africans throughout the Diaspora are dying for diamonds one way or another, whether you are on the block, in the mine, or sitting in the board room. The entire cycle of destruction starts with the continent of Africa and ends with you.
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27. Conclusion We must find an answer to this problem facing Africa and the Diaspora. It is essential to find other means of fulfilling our want to have jewels on our fingers or around our necks. As Kayne West said “Its in a Black man soul to rock that gold, spend his whole life trying to get that ice (diamonds).” My goal is not to rid the world of diamonds, but for Black people working in the interest of Black people to have control of their resources. Not elite diamond executives who make decisions for us. Self Determination is key for Black people around the world.