I was having a conversation with someone who feels that Jennifer Hudson and Derrick Rose should do something for low-income community of Englewood, the neighborhood from which they both came. She said that they could buy up the blocks they grew up on or create programs for people in the community.

As a former Englewood resident who is on a mission to be paid as much as or more than Jennifer and Derrick combined, here are my thoughts on that topic.

First, please know that people do what they want with their money regardless of how much they make.

Second, why should J-Hud and D-Rose buy up blocks and create programs in Englewood? They aren’t the only people living in or are from that neighborhood who have money. Does this person say the same thing about the people who have businesses in the community, who drive across the city to get to their neighborhoods,  but are not giving back? Most importantly, would the residents appreciate the efforts?

Third, I am certain that people would not feel this way if Jennifer and Derrick did not have celebrity status.

Fourth, without actually knowing, I am certain these two Chicagoans contribute to charitable causes near and dear to their hearts. If those causes are not in Englewood, then, oh well.

Fifth, would this person have the same expectations if J-Hud and D-Rose were white?

Sixth, do giving back always have to be financial? If these two people conducted FREE workshops  in the communities of their choice, that’s giving back.

Seventh, what is this person doing to contribute to the community? She’s giving her opinion on what Jennifer Hudson and Derrick Rose should do, but what is she doing to make a difference?

Eighth, why don’t people just mind their business?

Here’s my point. It is not Jennifer Hudson’s or Derrick Rose’s responsibility to rebuild Englewood. But I would encourage them to continue to be positive role models, and to let young people know that their dreams can come true with lots of hard work.

Images: Chicago Now and inquisitr