| Hundreds of former Black Panther Party members and supporters will converge
in Washington, DC to celebrate the founding principles, platform and programs
of the Black Panther Party. Formed 35 years ago the Black Panther Party
advocated social justice and an end to police brutality and inequality in the
United States, issues that remain very relevant three decades later.
The Black Panther Party sponsored free breakfast programs, independent
learning centers and opposed the war in Vietnam. The party was eventually
targeted by intensive FBI repression through an operation known as
Cointelpro. Many of its young leaders were killed and scores more were
imprisoned.
The conference, scheduled for October 11-14 at the University of the District
of Columbia, will commemorate the historic legacies of the Black Panther
Party and seek support for former Panthers and other social activists still
imprisoned. It will feature a number of speakers including Bobby Seale and
Geronimo Pratt, now know as Geronimo Ji Jaga, a prisoner for 27 years
eventually freed through the efforts of decades of struggle by supporters and
representation by noted attorney Johnnie Cochran. Joining them is Kathleen
Cleaver, the former Black Panther Party communications secretary; Emory
Douglas, the artist whose brilliant works illustrated the posters, newspapers
and other publications of the party and Nzinga Conway, the wife of political
prisoner Eddie Conway who has been imprisoned for 31 years.
Many of the party's members have continued to work in the area of social
change through elected office and working with non-profit organizations while
others have taken on teaching careers.
The conference is being coordinated by the Its About Time Committee, a
coalition of former Panthers and supporters. Activities will include
entertainment, art and photo exhibits from the Panther era as well as
speakers, panel discussions and workshops. For more information call
202-396-1021. |
