Where a white man can act in one manner and have it called ‘patriotism’, a black man can do the same thing and be branded ‘criminal’. Such is the knowledge that Aaron Dixon gained as an activist in the late 1960’s, knowledge that is true today, and will stay true until change occurs.
As a member –and eventual leader figure– of the Black Panther Party, Dixon gives an unprecedented look into the reason and actions of their movement. Searching for a sense of belonging, Dixon found it in the Black Panther Party, fighting against inequality and oppression with like-minded souls nationwide. While the Black Panthers were stereotyped for confronting police brutality (and other injustices) across the country, they were in constant fear for their own lives, with federal and state agencies putting out bounties for various Party figureheads, Dixon included.
Much less discussed, is the Party’s instrumental influence in setting up local agencies to combat food, health, educational and social injustices. Oftentimes these were the only resources available for black communities to get food aid, healthcare and other basic necessities.
People like Dixon, with the knowledge and experience they carry with them, are invaluable and must be listened to and learned from. I can’t recommend this highly enough.
Review by Joel
$19.95 Trade Paperback
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