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Why Is Umar Johnson Still Online Begging for Money?


Umar Johnson (Image source: Instagram – @drumarjohnson)
Umar Johnson (Image source: Instagram – @drumarjohnson)

Dr. Umar Johnson has been a polarizing figure in the Black community for over a decade. Known as a self-proclaimed “Prince of Pan-Afrikanism” and a vocal advocate for Black education and empowerment, Johnson first gained attention for his fiery speeches and unapologetic stance on issues affecting African Americans. But alongside the support came criticism—particularly around his ongoing fundraising efforts.


Posted to Sybabsolutely TikTok account


The Backstory: The School That Never Opens

In 2014, Umar Johnson launched a campaign to raise funds for what he called the Frederick Douglass Marcus Garvey Academy—a school aimed at educating young Black boys with a Pan-African-centered curriculum. Over the years, Johnson has claimed to have purchased property for the school, yet nearly a decade later, the project still has not fully opened its doors.


Despite years of donations, promises, and progress updates, the actual functioning of the school remains in limbo. This has led many supporters-turned-critics to ask the same question: Where is the money going?


Why People Are Questioning Him

  1. Lack of Transparency – Donors have repeatedly asked for clear financial statements or proof of where their contributions are going.

  2. Shifting Timelines – The school’s projected opening date has been pushed back multiple times, with new obstacles cited each year.

  3. Online Fundraising Fatigue – Johnson’s frequent pleas for financial support—often coupled with emotional or urgent appeals—have led some to label it as “begging” rather than organized fundraising.


Supporters’ Perspective

Despite the criticism, Umar Johnson still has a loyal following. Many see his vision as noble and believe systemic barriers and a lack of institutional support are the real reasons for the delays. They argue that community-led projects naturally take longer when operating without corporate or government backing.


The Bigger Issue: Trust and Accountability

The controversy isn’t just about Umar Johnson—it’s about trust within grassroots movements. Black communities have seen too many broken promises from both politicians and activists. When a leader repeatedly asks for money without delivering on their main promise, it erodes faith in similar future projects.


Final Thoughts

Whether you see Dr. Umar Johnson as a visionary being unfairly targeted or as someone exploiting community trust, one thing is clear: transparency is key. Without a clear accounting of funds and tangible results, the perception of “begging” will only grow. And in the age of social media, public opinion can turn on a dime.


If Umar truly wants to silence critics and prove doubters wrong, the solution is simple—open the school, show the books, and let the work speak for itself.

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