Allow me to explain, although I shouldn’t have to. In a world where technology is ubiquitous, and tons of information can be released in simple mouse clicks, ignorance should be a thing of the past. Some people simply refuse to believe the truth about one of the most powerful black groups in the world. On the other hand, some people JUST DON’T KNOW so I’m here to tell you all a little somethin’ somethin’ about The ORIGINAL Black Panther Party of the 60s.
It was founded in 1966 after police officers brutally murdered a young man by the name of Denzil Dowell and lied about the incident (sound familiar?) The police had been harassing the residents of this neighborhood in Richmond, CA for some time up until this moment and a revolutionary idea was sparked. Bobby Seale and Huey Newton formed The Black Panther Party of Defense in response to the brutality to protect the residents of the community against unfair, violent treatment. They weren’t a a violent group, they were an aggressive group, ready to protect themselves at any cost.
They learned the laws and LEGALLY carried weapons around their neighborhood to PROTECT those living in it. Not only did they protect but they nurtured by providing free breakfast and free healthcare for those in poverty. They educated themselves by learning the laws and running for political office to evoke change in the discriminatory laws. They also thought it necessary to form allies with other culturally motivated organizations. Not only did they unify amongst themselves they brought many groups of different cultures and backgrounds together. The Black Panthers were NOT a hate group.
I believe it to be a serious INJUSTICE to liken this group to the KKK. They didn’t go looking for white people to murder covered up in sheets and robes. They protected themselves against CROOKED COPS and had many whites and other groups standing with them in agreement. They are not the direct opposite to the KKK. I repeat, THEY ARE NOT A HATE GROUP.
The New Black Panther Party has NOTHING to do with the originals. The New Party was founded by Aaron Michael who was later pushed out by Khaalid Muhammed. The original party has stated numerous times that they are in no way associated with the new party. The new party took the previously victorious banner and used it to promote beliefs that are not in alignment with the original party’s foundation of beliefs. Make NO MISTAKE, what you see now is not the original party.
So, before you make a meme comparing this group to the KKK or you get mad at a black entertainer for honoring black leaders at your beloved Super Bowl, make sure you have the facts. Search engines are your friends. Use them to acquire knowledge!
Okay ! So let’s go through this quickly just to make sure we’re on the same page:
1. You can finds lots of information on the internet. I did, that’s how I was able to contact Kathleen Cleaver who is an original Black Panther. She gave me some insight on the group and well… There’s no better proof than someone who was actually there!
2. The party was formed as a direct response to police brutality, not to white people in general.
3. They were educated individuals who also provided for and supported the community.
4. They are not the direct opposite to the KKK.
5. They are in no way, shape or form associated with the new party.
There you have it folks! I hope that this helped some of you.
Power to the people ✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾 -Written by Keshaunia
Follow me on IG: @keshaunia_ and on Twitter @queensaetra
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