Black August

Reflection, Resistance and Revolution

Aug 01, 2024

Demonstrators walk along a street holding signs demanding the right to vote and equal civil rights at the March on Washington — Photo by Unseen Histories on Unsplash

Introduction

Black August is a month dedicated to reflecting on the struggles, sacrifices, and triumphs of Black freedom fighters. It is a time to honor those who have laid down their lives in the pursuit of justice and liberation, particularly those within the walls of the prison-industrial complex. The origins of Black August trace back to the 1970s in California prisons (such as the Folsom Prison Strike, 1970), where it was created to honor the lives and deaths of Black political prisoners killed by the State, raise awareness about prison conditions, and celebrate the radical tradition of Black resistance against systemic oppression. This blog delves into the ethics and validity of Black August, highlighting the often overlooked contributions of Black women in the fight for civil rights and liberation.

The Historical Significance of Black August

Black August is a month of historical significance for Black American people. It marks numerous pivotal moments in Black history that continue to shape contemporary struggles for freedom and justice. One of the most notable events associated with Black August is the assassination of George Jackson, a member of the Black Panther Party (see Power to the People, 2016), by a prison guard in San Quentin, California, on August 21, 1971. Jackson's death, along with the earlier death of his brother Jonathan Jackson, who died in a courthouse shootout in August 1970, left an indelible mark on the Black Liberation movement.

Moreover, August holds other significant dates such as the arrival of the first group of enslaved Africans in Virginia in late August 1619, the enactment of the Slavery Abolition Act in August 1833, and the brutal murder of Emmett Till on August 28, 1955. Each of these events underscores the long history of oppression and the ongoing fight for justice.

The Legacy of Black Women in the Struggle

While the narratives of Black August often highlight male figures such as George and Jonathan Jackson, it is crucial to recognize the indispensable contributions of Black women to the liberation struggle. (See Comrade Sisters, 2022). Black women have consistently been at the forefront of resistance, yet their efforts are frequently overlooked. Figures like Assata Shakur, Angela Davis, and Fannie Lou Hamer have played pivotal roles in challenging systemic oppression and advocating for Black liberation.

Assata Shakur, a former member of the Black Panther Party and the Black Liberation Army, remains a symbol of Black resistance. (See Dialectics of Liberation, 2022; ) Her autobiography, Assata: An Autobiography, provides insight into her life and the broader struggle for Black liberation. Angela Davis, another prominent figure, has dedicated her life to fighting against the prison-industrial complex and advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. Fannie Lou Hamer, a leader in the Civil Rights Movement, famously declared, "I am sick and tired of being sick and tired," capturing the exhaustion and determination of Black women fighting for justice.

Honoring Black Women Freedom Fighters

To truly honor Black August, it is imperative to center the stories and leadership of Black women. These women have not only participated in but have often led movements for civil rights, social justice, and liberation. Their contributions are not ancillary but foundational to the progress that has been made.

For instance, the Combahee River Collective, a Black feminist lesbian organization active in the 1970s, emphasized the interconnectedness of race, gender, and class oppression. Their work laid the groundwork for intersectional approaches to social justice that continue to influence contemporary movements. The imperative for justice is central to Christianity, for example, in the term mishpat, which is used over 400 times in the Bible.

Challenging Anti-Blackness

Black August is also a time to confront and dismantle anti-Blackness in all its forms. This includes recognizing that anti-Blackness is not only propagated by White communities but also exists within non-Black communities of color and within Black communities themselves. The internalization of anti-Blackness can lead to behaviors and attitudes that perpetuate oppression.

The fight against anti-Blackness requires a commitment to continuous self-reflection and action. It involves educating oneself about Black history and the ongoing struggles faced by Black communities, supporting policies that address systemic inequalities, and amplifying the voices of Black leaders and activists.

Actions to Honor Black August

To make the most of this month of observation, there are many things you can do as a student of history, and a member of the current struggles for liberation. From educating yourself, to taking concrete action, you can use August to enhance your participation in making the world more just. Here are four opportunities for participation:

1. Learn Black History

Educate yourself and others about Black history and the contributions of Black freedom fighters. Share resources such as books, articles, and documentaries that highlight the rich and often suppressed history of Black resistance.
Recommended reads include The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander, The Wretched of the Earth by Frantz Fanon, and How Europe Underdeveloped Africa by Walter Rodney.

2. Center Black Voices:

Amplify Black voices in your community and workplace. Support Black creators, entrepreneurs, and activists. Ensure that Black perspectives are included and valued in discussions about social justice and equity. (See Social Justice Meaning and Main Principles Explained, 2024.)
Engage with and support movements like Black Lives Matter and the fight for reparations.

3. Commit to Daily Actions:

Take daily actions to support Black communities. This can include donating to Black-led organizations, volunteering for causes that benefit Black people, or simply being an ally in your everyday interactions.
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4. Challenge Internalized Anti-Blackness:

Reflect on your own biases and work to unlearn anti-Black attitudes and behaviors. Engage in conversations about anti-Blackness with friends, family, and colleagues.
Recognize the ways in which non-Black communities of color also perpetuate anti-Blackness and work towards solidarity and allyship.

Conclusion

Black August is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for Black liberation and the sacrifices made by countless freedom fighters. It is a call to honor their legacy by continuing the fight against systemic oppression and anti-Blackness. By centering the contributions of Black women and committing to daily actions that support Black communities, we can move closer to a future of true equity and justice.

But, it is more than this. It is a reminder that Black women have always been and continue to be standard bearers in America’s political landscape. Today, whether serving the highest court in the land, or the highest political office of the land, Black women continue to provide strong and reliable leadership which can galvanize us around our democratic goals and our ethical responsibilities.

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