Whatevah'

Philosopher William Fontaine aside - when did it become a luxury for Black people to think?

Some blame the end of Segregation. ('"They' only taught us about 'Their' history.")
Others blame the poor quality of our schools. ('"They' don't give us the good books.")
Others blame poverty. ("We got (sic) real problems."
Others blame "Mr. White Man". (When told that their actions, lack of education or lack of social skills are what are holding them back, "Whatevah" is usually the reply.)

But none of these factors have the ability to suppress thought.
These are only conditions - they have little to do with a culture that dismisses and castigates those who think bigger thoughts or dream bigger dreams or take the bigger steps.
At what point in time did "We" become the "They" that are holding us back?
And when did the ability to think become a negative?