“In Oakland, they started a free breakfast program
so that poor kids can have a meal
before starting their school day. Pancakes,”

― Jacqueline Woodson, Brown Girl Dreaming

The Black Panther Party was a revolutionary political organization founded by Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale in 1966. It emerged as a response to police brutality and systemic racism faced by African Americans in the United States during the Civil Rights Movement. The Black Panthers believed in self-defense, community organizing, and the empowerment of Black communities. They advocated for the rights of African Americans, including access to quality education, healthcare, and housing, as well as an end to police violence. The party’s symbol, the black panther, represented strength, resilience, and assertiveness. They also wore black clothing, leather jackets, and berets as a distinctive uniform. The Black Panthers implemented several community programs to address social issues, such as free breakfast programs for children, health clinics, and legal aid services. They also organized armed patrols to monitor police activities, which often led to confrontations with law enforcement. The group faced intense government surveillance and persecution, including the infamous FBI program COINTELPRO, which sought to dismantle and discredit the organization. The Black Panthers eventually disbanded in the late 1970s due to internal conflicts, government repression, and the changing political landscape. However, their legacy continues to inspire and influence movements for racial justice and equality today.