In this in-depth conversation with revolutionary organizer Ashanti Alston, former member of the Black Panther Party and Black Liberation Army, we trace a life committed to struggle, freedom, and community. From his early experiences during the Civil Rights era and the 1967 Plainfield Rebellion to his radicalization through Black Power and anti-imperialist movements, Ashanti reflects on the lessons, tensions, and commitments that defined a generation of liberation fighters. He discusses the work of building Panther chapters, community defense, and the realities of underground struggleâoffering powerful reflections on discipline, solidarity, and the meaning of revolutionary love. Through personal stories and political insight, this episode captures both the historical and ongoing spirit of Black liberation and anarchist resistance.
Listen to PART 2: https://open.spotify.com/show/15CpGdYF2IyVBHe3GCt2Lc
đ Dive deeper into Ashanti Alstonâs journey â full show notes, history, and resources are up now on our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/140939055
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BOOKS, READING, AND MEDIA MENTIONED [some affiliate links]
đ The Communist Manifesto by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels (1848) â Introduced Alston to class analysis. | â https://bookshop.org/a/109212/9780140447576â
đ Revolutionary Catechism by Sergey Nechayev (1869) â Text on revolutionary commitment that influenced Alstonâs thinking when transitioning underground. | â http://marxists.org/subject/anarchism/nechayev/catechism.htmâ
đ The Battle of Algiers (film, 1966) â A revolutionary film required viewing for Panthers, showing urban anti-colonial warfare.
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EPISODE CHAPTERS
01:48Â Introduction and Welcoming Ashanti
02:11Â Ashanti's Early Life and Family Background
03:23Â Experiencing the Civil Rights Movement
04:13Â The 1967 Plainfield Rebellion
06:53Â Influence of Black Power and Revolutionary Ideologies
12:23Â Joining the Black Panther Party
16:25Â Organizing and Community Support
21:55Â Challenges and Pushback
31:15Â Creating the Black Panther Chapter
30:18Â Daily Life and Responsibilities of Panthers
32:36Â Weapons Training and Discipline
35:18Â Community Engagement and Support
39:14Â Frame-Up Charges and Legal Battles
49:18Â Life in Jail and Continued Activism
53:34Â Transition to Underground Work
56:21Â Reflections on Sacrifice and Commitment
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