Bartering while Black
Black communities have a long history of exchanging goods and services without cash, operating within their networks and communities.
Bartering is a cashless exchange system that has existed in many forms since the beginning of time. In ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, participants secured the goods or services that they needed by trading goods and services they already offered. In many black communities, this practice expands beyond goods and services. My aunty would often exchange wisdom for some optimism, my homegirl would give "being demure" in exchange for assertiveness, and community members would take a little bit of my confidence and give me faith in return. No money was exchanged, but services were rendered.
I grew up in a racially homogenous but characteristically diverse community until I left for college. Community members were often recognized for specific skills they could trade with others. For instance, Mrs. Johnson, a retired teacher, might tutor a neighborhood child in the evenings, and in return, the child's family would gift her produce from their backyard garden. Another example could be a community member braiding hair in exchange for lawn care services. This reciprocal cashless arrangement would continue until each participant received what they needed, indirectly fostering a sense of community, safety, and mutual trust.
The cultural significance of bartering is often rooted in community ties. For many Black communities, this practice has historically built solidarity and facilitated resource sharing, especially in the face of economic disenfranchisement. I encourage us to explore the revival of traditional bartering in our modern Black communities. Revisiting the concept of "Bartering while Black" could lead to the emergence of alternative economic systems, such as cooperative businesses, shared economies, and community-based initiatives.
In the spirit of bartering I offer photography services in exchange for a copy editor.
References:
Smith, M. (2025). Stories of My Life [memory edition]. South Side Publishing Company
