Month: November 2024

Black People’s Conference: Free Speech, Conspiracy and the Struggle of African People with Supplemental_Chairman Omali Yeshitela on what the Trump election means for Black people

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Last Updated 11-09-24

Welcome to this conference, following the historic 16th annual Black People’s March on the White House organized by the Black is Back Coalition and the Hands Off Uhuru Fightback Coalition!

Web link: https://blackisbackcoalition.org/16th-annual-black-peoples-march-on-the-white-house-2/

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Black People’s Conference: Free Speech, Conspiracy and the Struggle of African People

The Chairman starts speaking at 14:00 minutes.

Supplemental: Chairman Omali Yeshitela on what the Trump election means for Black people

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War Against the Panthers: A Study of Repression in America_eBook and Audiobook, Huey P. Newton Doctoral Dissertation / UC Santa Cruz 1 Jun 1980, with Huey P. Newton Rare Footage_Clips and Interviews

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Credits: https://libcom.org/article/war-against-panthers-study-repression-america-huey-p-newton

“Ph.D. dissertation by Huey P Newton, analysing certain features of the Black Panther Party and incidents that are significant in its development. Some central events in the growth of the Party, from adoption of an ideology and platform to implementation of community programs, are first described. This is followed by a presentation of the federal government’s response to the Party.” Source: Libcom.org-huey-p-newton

Book Summary

Huey P. Newton’s “War Against the Panthers: A Study of Repression in America” offers an insightful examination of the Black Panther Party (BPP) and the systemic repression it faced from the U.S. government and law enforcement. Here’s an overview and outline of the book:

  • Historical Context: The book situates the Black Panther Party within the civil rights movement and the broader struggle for racial equality in the United States.
  • Repression and Resistance: Newton explores various forms of repression faced by the Panthers, including surveillance, arrests, and violent confrontations with law enforcement.
  • Philosophy and Ideology: Newton articulates the BPP’s ideology, emphasizing self-defense, community empowerment, and the fight against systemic racism.
  • Personal Account: The narrative includes Newton’s personal experiences and reflections as a leader within the party, providing insight into the challenges and triumphs of the movement.
  • Impact and Legacy: The book addresses the long-term effects of repression on the Black Panther Party and its enduring legacy in contemporary social justice movements.

This outline provides a structured look at the contents of Newton’s work, encapsulating the primary themes and historical significance of the Black Panther Party’s struggle against repression.

  • Introduction
    • Purpose of the study
    • Overview of the Black Panther Party’s formation and goals
  • Chapter 1: Historical Background
    • Context of racial oppression in America
    • The civil rights movement and its influence on the BPP
  • Chapter 2: Ideological Foundations
    • Key principles of the Black Panther Party
    • The philosophy of self-defense and community empowerment
  • Chapter 3: Government Surveillance and Repression
    • Overview of COINTELPRO and its impact on the BPP
    • Tactics used by law enforcement to undermine the party
  • Chapter 4: Confrontations with Law Enforcement
    • Notable incidents of violence and arrests
    • The media portrayal of the Panthers and its effects
  • Chapter 5: Internal Struggles and Challenges
    • Conflicts within the party
    • The impact of repression on leadership and membership
  • Chapter 6: Community Programs and Initiatives
    • Overview of the BPP’s social programs (e.g., free breakfast programs, health clinics)
    • The role of these initiatives in community building
  • Chapter 7: The Legacy of the Black Panther Party
    • Examination of the BPP’s contributions to social justice
    • The enduring influence on contemporary movements
  • Conclusion
    • Summary of key themes and findings
    • Reflection on the importance of understanding the history of repression in America

As co-founder of the Black Panther Party, Huey P. Newton knew repression first hand. Surviving a shooting in which one police officer was killed and another wounded, Newton became the symbol of Black urban resistance in the United States. Obscure until now, Newton’s valuable Ph.D. dissertation War Against the Panthers offers an insightful reconstruction that could have only been written by a key participant in the events.

Huey P. Newton Doctoral Dissertation

Newton earned his Ph.D. in History of Consciousness from the University of California, Santa Cruz on June 15, 1980. Credits: viewpointmag.com

War Against the Panthers: A Study of Repression in America_eBook

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War Against the Panthers: A Study of Repression in America_Audiobook

Huey P. Newton Rare Footage_ Clips and Interviews

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Black Liberation and Socialism, by Ahmed Shawki_eBook and Audiobook, with In Memoriam Ahmed Shawki (1960–2023)

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Credits: Ahmed Shawki

“A sharp and insightful analysis of historic movements against racism in the United States—from the separatism of Marcus Garvey, to the militancy of Malcolm X and the Black Panther Party, to the eloquence of Martin Luther King Jr. and much more—with essential lessons for today’s struggles. In the 40 years since the civil rights movement, many gains have been made—but there is still far to go to win genuine change. Here is a badly needed primer on the history and future of the struggle against racism.”

Black Liberation and Socialism_eBook

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Black Liberation and Socialism_Audiobook

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In Memoriam Ahmed Shawki (1960–2023)

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Claim No Easy Victories: The Legacy of Amilcar Cabral, Edited by Firoze Manji and Bill Fletcher Jr._eBook and Audiobook, with Amílcar Cabral Video Player

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Book summary

“Claim No Easy Victories: The Legacy of Amilcar Cabral,” edited by Firoze Manji and Bill Fletcher Jr., is a comprehensive exploration of the life, ideas, and enduring impact of Amilcar Cabral, a prominent leader in the struggle for independence in Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde. The book brings together essays and reflections from various scholars, activists, and thinkers who examine Cabral’s contributions to anti-colonial struggles, revolutionary theory, and the broader fight for social justice. Through this anthology, the editors aim to highlight Cabral’s legacy as a source of inspiration for contemporary movements and to explore the relevance of his ideas in addressing current global issues of oppression and inequality.

The outline that follows captures the main themes and structure of “Claim No Easy Victories,” highlighting the critical discussions within the anthology regarding Amilcar Cabral’s legacy and its significance for contemporary social justice movements. The book serves as an important resource for understanding the complexities of anti-colonial struggles and the ongoing fight for liberation and equality.

I. Introduction

  • Overview of the book’s purpose: to explore Amilcar Cabral’s legacy and contributions
  • Introduction to Firoze Manji and Bill Fletcher Jr. as editors and their significance in the discourse of social justice
  • The importance of Cabral’s philosophy in contemporary movements

II. Historical Context of Cabral’s Work

  • Examination of the colonial context in Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde
  • Overview of Cabral’s role in the anti-colonial struggle and the founding of the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC)
  • Discussion of the political landscape of Africa during Cabral’s time

III. Cabral’s Revolutionary Theory

  • Analysis of Cabral’s ideas on revolutionary struggle, national liberation, and socialism
  • Exploration of his concept of “cultural identity” and its importance in the liberation process
  • Discussion of the relationship between theory and practice in Cabral’s philosophy

IV. The Role of Culture in Liberation

  • Examination of Cabral’s views on culture as a tool for resistance and empowerment
  • Analysis of the role of education and consciousness-raising in the liberation movement
  • Discussion of how Cabral integrated cultural elements into the political struggle

V. Lessons from Cabral’s Leadership

  • Insights into Cabral’s leadership style and his approach to organizing and mobilizing people
  • Exploration of his emphasis on unity, collective action, and grassroots involvement
  • Analysis of the challenges faced by Cabral and the PAIGC and the lessons learned from their experiences

VI. Cabral’s Legacy in Contemporary Movements

  • Examination of how Cabral’s ideas resonate with current social justice movements globally
  • Discussion of his influence on contemporary thinkers and activists in Africa and beyond
  • Exploration of the relevance of Cabral’s philosophy in addressing modern issues such as globalization, imperialism, and inequality

VII. Reflections on Anti-Colonial Struggles

  • Critical analysis of the successes and failures of anti-colonial movements in Africa post-Cabral
  • Discussion of the ongoing struggles against neocolonialism and exploitation
  • Insights into the importance of maintaining a revolutionary spirit in contemporary activism

VIII. Conclusion

  • Summary of key themes and insights from the anthology
  • Reflection on the enduring relevance of Amilcar Cabral’s legacy in today’s world
  • A call to action for current and future generations to draw inspiration from Cabral’s teachings in their struggles for justice and liberation

“Claim No Easy Victories: The Legacy of Amilcar Cabral,” edited by Firoze Manji and Bill Fletcher Jr., is a significant anthology that pays homage to Amilcar Cabral’s contributions to anti-colonial movements and revolutionary thought. Cabral, a key figure in the struggle for independence in Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde, is celebrated for his profound insights into the nature of colonialism, culture, and liberation. The book brings together a diverse range of essays that explore various aspects of Cabral’s legacy, shedding light on the relevance of his ideas in contemporary struggles for justice and equality.

Key Themes and Insights

  1. Historical Context of Colonial Struggles:
    • The anthology begins by situating Cabral within the historical context of colonialism in Africa. It discusses the oppressive systems that existed in Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde, where Cabral emerged as a revolutionary leader advocating for independence.
    • The contributions outline the conditions that led to the formation of the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC) and the significance of Cabral’s leadership in galvanizing support for the liberation movement.
  2. Cabral’s Revolutionary Theory:
    • One of the central themes of the book is Cabral’s theoretical contributions to revolutionary practice. His ideas on national liberation, socialism, and the importance of integrating culture into the struggle for independence are thoroughly analyzed.
    • Cabral emphasized that liberation is not merely a political or military endeavor but also a cultural and psychological process. This holistic approach is a key aspect of his legacy.
  3. The Role of Culture in Liberation:
    • A significant focus of Cabral’s work was the interplay between culture and liberation. He believed that understanding and embracing cultural identity were essential for building a cohesive movement against colonial oppression.
    • The essays explore how Cabral advocated for education, art, and cultural expression as means of fostering unity and resistance, illustrating how culture can empower communities to articulate their struggles and aspirations.
  4. Leadership and Mobilization:
    • The anthology reflects on Cabral’s leadership style, characterized by his emphasis on collective action, grassroots involvement, and the necessity of engaging the masses in the liberation struggle.
    • Contributors discuss the challenges Cabral faced in mobilizing diverse communities and the strategies he employed to overcome divisions, highlighting the importance of solidarity in revolutionary movements.
  5. Legacy in Contemporary Movements:
    • The relevance of Cabral’s ideas to contemporary social justice movements is a recurring theme throughout the book. Contributors draw connections between Cabral’s philosophies and current struggles against globalization, imperialism, and systemic inequality.
    • The anthology illustrates how Cabral’s emphasis on cultural identity and grassroots organizing continues to inspire activists and movements around the world, reinforcing the idea that liberation struggles are interconnected.
  6. Reflections on Anti-Colonial Successes and Failures:
    • The essays critically assess the successes and challenges faced by anti-colonial movements in the aftermath of independence. They analyze how the ideals of liberation have sometimes been undermined by neocolonial practices and internal conflicts.
    • Contributors call for a renewed commitment to the principles of solidarity, unity, and revolutionary spirit that Cabral championed, emphasizing the importance of learning from both successes and setbacks in the quest for justice.
  7. A Call to Action:
    • The anthology concludes with a powerful call to action, urging current and future generations to draw inspiration from Cabral’s teachings as they navigate the complexities of contemporary struggles for social justice.
    • It emphasizes the need for continued engagement, activism, and the pursuit of a more equitable world, reminding readers that the fight for liberation is ongoing and requires collective effort.

Conclusion

“Claim No Easy Victories” serves as an important tribute to Amilcar Cabral, encapsulating his profound influence on revolutionary thought and practice. The anthology highlights the enduring relevance of his ideas for contemporary movements seeking to address issues of oppression, inequality, and social justice.

Through its diverse contributions, the book not only honors Cabral’s legacy but also encourages critical reflection on the nature of liberation and the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized communities worldwide. It stands as a vital resource for scholars, activists, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of anti-colonial movements and the potential for transformative change inspired by Cabral’s vision.

Claim No Easy Victories: The Legacy of Amilcar Cabral, Edited by Firoze Manji and Bill Fletcher Jr._eBook

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Claim No Easy Victories_Audiobook

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Amílcar Cabral Video Player

6 Video Playlist

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A Certain Amount of Madness: The Life Politics and Legacies of Thomas Sankara, Edited by Amber Murrey (Black Critique)_eBook and Audiobook, with From Thomas Sankara to Captain Ibrahim Traore Video Player

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Book Summary

“A Certain Amount of Madness: The Life Politics and Legacies of Thomas Sankara,” edited by Amber Murrey, is a comprehensive examination of the life and enduring impact of Thomas Sankara, the revolutionary leader of Burkina Faso. Sankara, who served as president from 1983 until his assassination in 1987, is celebrated for his radical policies aimed at achieving social justice, economic self-sufficiency, and anti-imperialism. This anthology brings together a diverse range of essays and reflections from scholars, activists, and thinkers who explore Sankara’s political philosophy, his vision for Africa, and the continuing relevance of his ideas in contemporary struggles for justice and equality. Through this collection, the editors aim to honor Sankara’s legacy while also encouraging critical dialogue about the challenges and possibilities for revolutionary change in the present day.

The outline that follows captures the main themes and structure of “A Certain Amount of Madness,” highlighting the critical discussions within the anthology regarding Thomas Sankara’s legacy and its significance for contemporary social justice movements. The book serves as an important resource for understanding the complexities of revolutionary thought and the ongoing fight for justice and equality in Africa and beyond.

I. Introduction

  • Overview of the book’s purpose: to explore the life, politics, and legacy of Thomas Sankara
  • Introduction to Amber Murrey as the editor and her significance in the discourse on African political thought
  • The importance of examining Sankara’s contributions to contemporary movements for social justice

II. Historical Context of Sankara’s Leadership

  • Examination of Burkina Faso’s political landscape prior to Sankara’s rise to power
  • Overview of Sankara’s military background and his ascent within the political sphere
  • Discussion of the socio-economic conditions that prompted Sankara’s revolutionary vision

III. Sankara’s Political Philosophy

  • Analysis of Sankara’s revolutionary ideology, including his views on socialism, nationalism, and anti-imperialism
  • Exploration of his emphasis on self-reliance and economic independence for African nations
  • Discussion of Sankara’s approach to leadership and governance, including his commitment to transparency and accountability

IV. Policies and Reforms Under Sankara

  • Examination of key policies implemented during Sankara’s presidency, including land reform, education, healthcare, and women’s rights
  • Insights into Sankara’s efforts to combat corruption and promote environmental sustainability
  • Discussion of the challenges and successes of these policies in transforming Burkina Faso

V. The Role of Women in Sankara’s Vision

  • Exploration of Sankara’s commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women
  • Analysis of policies aimed at improving women’s rights and participation in governance
  • Discussion of the impact of these policies on societal attitudes toward gender roles in Burkina Faso

VI. Sankara’s International Relations and Anti-Imperialism

  • Examination of Sankara’s foreign policy, including his relationships with other African nations and global powers
  • Analysis of his stance against neo-colonialism and imperialism, and his advocacy for pan-African solidarity
  • Insights into Sankara’s participation in international forums and his influence on global anti-imperialist movements

VII. Legacy and Memory of Sankara

  • Discussion of the circumstances surrounding Sankara’s assassination and its aftermath
  • Exploration of how Sankara’s legacy is remembered in Burkina Faso and beyond, including cultural representations and commemorations
  • Analysis of the ongoing relevance of Sankara’s ideas in contemporary social and political movements

VIII. Reflections on Revolutionary Change

  • Critical reflections on the lessons learned from Sankara’s life and leadership
  • Discussion of the challenges facing contemporary movements for social justice and how Sankara’s legacy can inform current struggles
  • Exploration of the notion of revolutionary change in the context of modern political realities

IX. Conclusion

  • Summary of key themes and insights from the anthology
  • Reflection on the enduring significance of Thomas Sankara’s ideas and actions for current and future generations
  • A call to action for continued advocacy and engagement in the pursuit of justice, equality, and revolutionary change

“A Certain Amount of Madness: The Life Politics and Legacies of Thomas Sankara,” edited by Amber Murrey, offers an in-depth exploration of one of Africa’s most iconic revolutionary leaders, Thomas Sankara. Known as the “African Che Guevara,” Sankara’s presidency in Burkina Faso from 1983 until his assassination in 1987 was marked by transformative policies aimed at addressing social inequalities, fostering economic independence, and promoting pan-African solidarity. This anthology not only honors Sankara’s legacy but also critically engages with his ideas and their relevance in contemporary political contexts.

Key Themes and Insights

  1. Historical Context of Burkina Faso:
    • The anthology begins by situating Sankara within the historical and political landscape of Burkina Faso prior to his leadership. It discusses the colonial legacy and the socio-economic challenges the country faced, including poverty, illiteracy, and dependency on foreign aid.
    • Contributors provide insights into the conditions that allowed for Sankara’s rise to power, including his military background and the revolutionary atmosphere of the early 1980s.
  2. Political Philosophy and Ideology:
    • Sankara’s political philosophy is a central theme throughout the book. His commitment to socialism, nationalism, and anti-imperialism is thoroughly analyzed, showcasing his vision for a self-reliant African continent.
    • The anthology highlights Sankara’s rejection of neo-colonialism and his advocacy for African unity, reflecting his belief that true independence could only be achieved through collective action and solidarity among African nations.
  3. Innovative Policies and Reforms:
    • The book delves into the key policies implemented during Sankara’s presidency, such as land reform, which aimed to redistribute land to peasants and promote agricultural self-sufficiency.
    • Contributors discuss his ambitious health and education initiatives, which significantly improved literacy rates and access to healthcare, particularly for marginalized communities.
    • Sankara’s efforts to combat environmental degradation and promote sustainable development are also highlighted as integral components of his governance.
  4. Empowerment of Women:
    • One of the most notable aspects of Sankara’s leadership was his commitment to gender equality. The anthology explores how he championed women’s rights, promoting policies that aimed to improve women’s social and economic status.
    • Contributors analyze the impact of these policies on societal attitudes toward women and their roles in governance, illustrating how Sankara’s vision sought to dismantle patriarchal structures.
  5. International Relations and Anti-Imperialism:
    • Sankara’s foreign policy, characterized by a commitment to pan-Africanism and anti-imperialism, is examined in detail. The book discusses his relationships with other African leaders and his advocacy for solidarity among African nations against external exploitation.
    • The anthology provides insights into how Sankara’s international stance resonated with global anti-colonial movements, reinforcing his status as a prominent figure in the struggle against imperialism.
  6. Assassination and Legacy:
    • The circumstances surrounding Sankara’s assassination in 1987 and its implications for Burkina Faso are critically analyzed. Contributors discuss the political climate that led to his death and the subsequent impact on the country and the broader region.
    • The anthology reflects on how Sankara’s legacy is remembered today, including cultural representations, commemorations, and the ongoing influence of his ideas on contemporary social movements.
  7. Contemporary Relevance:
    • A significant portion of the anthology is dedicated to exploring the relevance of Sankara’s ideas in current struggles for justice and equality. Contributors draw connections between Sankara’s vision and contemporary issues such as globalization, social inequality, and environmental challenges.
    • The discussions emphasize the need for renewed revolutionary spirit and collective action to address the injustices that persist in today’s world.
  8. Lessons for Future Generations:
    • The anthology concludes with reflections on the lessons learned from Sankara’s life and leadership. Contributors encourage readers to engage with his teachings and apply them to contemporary struggles for justice, advocating for a commitment to revolutionary change in the face of adversity.
    • The call to action emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing, community engagement, and solidarity in the pursuit of a more equitable world.

Conclusion

“A Certain Amount of Madness” is a crucial contribution to the understanding of Thomas Sankara’s legacy and its significance for contemporary social justice movements. The anthology showcases a diverse range of perspectives that not only celebrate Sankara’s achievements but also engage critically with the complexities of his policies and ideas.

By illuminating the historical context, political philosophy, and lasting impact of Sankara’s leadership, the book serves as an important resource for scholars, activists, and anyone interested in the ongoing fight for justice, equality, and revolutionary change. It encourages readers to draw inspiration from Sankara’s vision as they navigate the challenges of the present and work towards a more just and liberated future.

A Certain Amount of Madness_eBook

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A Certain Amount of Madness_Audiobook

Audio start corresponds to page 12 of the above Reader.

From Thomas Sankara to Captain Ibrahim Traore Video Player

13 Video Playlist

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