Unpacking the History of the Black Radical Tradition

The Black Radical Tradition is a historical current of organized struggle rooted in socialist, Pan-African, internationalist, and decolonial politics that confronts racial capitalism, internal colonialism, and imperial domination. This session unpacks how that tradition has been systematically whitewashed and commodified, reducing revolutionary movements and figures into harmless symbols while erasing their politics, organizations, and strategies. We will examine concrete examples of organized resistance—from RAM and the Panthers to international solidarities with Haiti, Cuba, and Palestine—to assess how different tactics emerged from real material conditions and what they achieved in practice.

The discussion will focus on how today’s movements, including Pan-African Community Action’s (PACA’s) work for community control and Pan-African unity, must reclaim this lineage and build durable organization capable of resisting liberal cooptation and sustaining long-term struggles for liberation.

Light snacks and refreshments will be provided!

This is a hybrid event with an option to participate online. Select the appropriate option when you register. If you select the option to participate on Zoom, an access link will be emailed to you on the day of the event.

If attending in person, please wear a mask and don’t come if you’re sick!