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 struggle—offering 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
📚 Dive deeper into Ashanti Alston’s journey — 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]
🔗 The Communist Manifesto by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels (1848) – Introduced Alston to class analysis. | https://bookshop.org/a/109212/9780140447576
🔗 Revolutionary Catechism by Sergey Nechayev (1869) – Text on revolutionary commitment that influenced Alston’s thinking when transitioning underground. | http://marxists.org/subject/anarchism/nechayev/catechism.htm
🔗 The Battle of Algiers (film, 1966) – A revolutionary film required viewing for Panthers, showing urban anti-colonial warfare.
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EPISODE CHAPTERS
01:48 Introduction and Welcoming Ashanti
02:11 Ashanti's Early Life and Family Background
03:23 Experiencing the Civil Rights Movement
04:13 The 1967 Plainfield Rebellion
06:53 Influence of Black Power and Revolutionary Ideologies
12:23 Joining the Black Panther Party
16:25 Organizing and Community Support
21:55 Challenges and Pushback
31:15 Creating the Black Panther Chapter
30:18 Daily Life and Responsibilities of Panthers
32:36 Weapons Training and Discipline
35:18 Community Engagement and Support
39:14 Frame-Up Charges and Legal Battles
49:18 Life in Jail and Continued Activism
53:34 Transition to Underground Work
56:21 Reflections on Sacrifice and Commitment
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