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By Ray’Chel Wilson
Leadership’s Role in Economic Justice
Economic justice is a widely discussed issue, often framed around policy changes and systemic shifts. However, history shows that leadership at all levels, personal, community, and institutional play a crucial role in advancing financial equity. One historical figure who exemplified this was Monsieur de Renty (1611–1649), a devoted social reformer. His structured approach to economic empowerment offers timeless lessons on fostering financial stability and independence.
A Six-Step Model for Sponsorship and Economic Empowerment
Monsieur de Renty’s leadership centered on six key strategies that remain relevant today:
1. Creating Job Opportunities
De Renty believed financial stability begins with access to work. He helped individuals find jobs or start their businesses. Today, we can replicate this by mentoring job seekers, providing job referrals, and investing in Black-owned businesses.
2. Providing Tools and Resources
Empowerment requires more than encouragement—it demands access to necessary tools. In de Renty’s time, this meant materials for a trade; today, it includes technology access, scholarships, or startup capital. Leaders must ask: What does this person need to succeed?
3. Buying Their Products and Services
Economic justice goes beyond charity; it involves sustainable support. De Renty personally purchased goods and services from those he assisted. Modern leaders can follow suit by prioritizing local and underrepresented businesses in their purchasing decisions.
4. Spreading the Word
To amplify impact, de Renty gave away these goods as gifts, increasing demand. In today’s digital world, we can share small businesses on social media, write positive reviews, and recommend them within our networks.
5. Encouraging Others to Support
De Renty mobilized his community to invest in those he uplifted. We too can inspire our churches, organizations, and peer groups to engage in ethical and intentional spending.
6. Following Up and Offering Support
True leadership extends beyond one-time aid. De Renty maintained relationships with those he helped, ensuring continued success. Mentorship, networking, and long-term guidance can offer similar support today.
The Community Impact: Why This Matters 
These principles are not just theoretical, they have real implications for communities striving for financial equity. According to “The God of Intimacy and Action” by Tony Campolo and Mary Albert Darling, faith-based leadership calls for treating individuals with dignity and equipping them with the means to build sustainable success. This aligns with the biblical call in Micah 6:8: “To do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly…”
By applying these principles, communities can break cycles of economic hardship and create lasting prosperity. Supporting Black-owned businesses, mentoring young professionals, and advocating for financial literacy are actionable ways to drive economic justice.
Call to Action: Leadership as Liberation
Economic justice is more than financial transactions—it’s about building ecosystems where all individuals can thrive. Leadership, when approached with intentionality and historical wisdom, can transform economic landscapes.
What step will you take today to uplift someone in your community?
Author’s Bio
Ray’Chel Wilson, a Toledo native, is the author of the internationally selling “Black Wealth Freedom” workbook series and CEO of ForOurLastNames.
