Can a White Person Join the Black Panthers?

The concept of a White person joining the Black Panther Party (BPP) is a complex and often misunderstood topic. The black panthers were founded to combat racism, economic inequality, and police brutality, specifically within the Black community. However, their principles and activism were not limited to Black individuals. In this article, we explore the history, policies, and reality of White participation in the BPP.

History and Principles of the Black Panthers

The Black Panther Party, founded in 1966 in Oakland, California, was a revolutionary organization that sought to empower the Black community and fight against systemic injustices. Their program explicitly stated: 'We shall build our Party to be a mass organization composed of workers, laborers, students, professionals and people from the whole working class.'

While most members of the BPP were indeed Black, their mission was inclusive. Members like Fred Hampton and members of the party emphasized that they welcomed alliance with all 'right-thinking' anti-racist people. The organization acknowledged that allies could support their cause and contribute to various programs and initiatives, regardless of their race.

White Involvement and Support

It is not only some individuals but also entire groups that provided support to the BPP. White individuals and organizations played a significant role in the broader movement. Some notable examples include:

Aunt and Uncle's Involvement: Personal experiences like those shared by the narrator highlight how white individuals such as aunts and uncles could become involved in the movement. They supported through participating in political activities, circulating petitions, and engaging with other social movements like the farmworker movement and the antiwar movement. Intercommunal Survival Committee: The Intercommunal Survival Committee was an auxiliary organization of the BPP that specifically aimed to engage White people and others in understanding the true purpose of the Black Panther Party and organizing around common interests. White Panther Party: Though not officially part of the BPP, the White Panther Party emerged in response to the BPP's anti-racism stance. Although the White Panther Party is often confused with the BPP, it represents a different form of activism.

Realities and Current Status

The original Black Panther Party ceased to exist decades ago. There are, however, organizations that claim to be successors but have faced criticism from former members for authenticity and legitimacy.

Successor Organizations: These organizations may use the name 'Black Panther Party' but are not recognized as legitimate by the original founders. Former members of the BPP have publicly disavowed some of these organizations, emphasizing that there is no official 'legitimate successor.'

As Rachel Dolezal, the controversial figure who claimed to be Black, demonstrated, modern attempts to join or emulate the BPP in real life have faced scrutiny and criticism. Dolezal's case highlights the importance of genuine activism and anti-racism in line with the original principles of the BPP rather than superficial gestures.

Conclusion

The question of a White person joining the Black Panthers revolves around understanding the true nature of the movement, its principles, and its inclusive spirit. While the original BPP does not exist, its legacy and values continue to inspire activism and social change. Those genuinely committed to anti-racism and social justice can find meaningful ways to support these causes through various means, including community organizing, petitioning, or joining legitimate organizations that uphold the original principles of the BPP.