It is imperative to mention that Assata Shakur is one of the most well-known activists, but the problem is that many view her actions as incredibly controversial, and it has led to numerous discussions. She was determined to build a society without any oppression and discrimination and was actively participating in meetings (Perkins 3). Also, it is necessary to mention that she has inspired numerous black feminist movements because they realized that it is necessary to fight against the system if they want something to change in the future. It is also interesting that some suggest that the decision to put her on the list of most-wanted offenders was made because FBI is trying to ensure that the population is afraid of radicalism (Adewunmi par. 2). Moreover, the documentary was very emotional and has made me think about the struggle of Shakur and difficulties she had to face.
Relevance
It is paramount to understand that the name of the activist is relevant even today because an enormous percentage of the population does not agree with the decision of the government. Moreover, it is believed that some pieces of the evidence were fabricated. Another aspect that is worth noting is that unity between the races and cultures is essential, and must be utilized to address all of the most significant issues (Thompson 348). For instance, police brutality in Ferguson has been a topic of numerous controversies, and it is imperative to understand that it affects many women, and it is a responsibility of every feminist to draw attention to this problem. Moreover, it is worrying that issues that people had to deal with at that time are still present and not resolved. The problem is that some women do not have an understanding of what is the purpose of feminism (Hooks 239). Furthermore, a review of the biography of this activist may be vital.
Beyonce and Assata Shakur
It is imperative to understand that the similarity between politics of these two women is that they are not afraid of expressing their opinions and ideas. Moreover, Beyonce has managed to establish an enormous fan base and is viewed as one of the most influential modern artists. Furthermore, she understands that it is an outstanding opportunity to address some of the issues that modern society has to deal with at the moment. Another aspect that is worth noting is that NYPD has reported that Beyonce’s new tour is going to be boycotted because her recent video is believed to be anti-police (Peck par.1). Moreover, her performance at the Super Bowl was also quite controversial and has led to numerous discussions (Elgot par.1). The lyrics of the song may also be studied to get a better understanding of the singer’s position.
However, this approach is highly questionable and makes one wonder if it is possible to express revolutionary ideas without being punished by the government. Moreover, it is necessary to understand that some of the actions of Black Panther Party were not reasonable and against the law. However, something had to be done about the brutality of police officers and discrimination, and the situation could not be resolved peacefully. Also, it is evident that the government has been trying to criminalize the organization because it viewed it as a significant threat that needs to be addressed. It is understandable that homage to such organization may be incredibly controversial, but the form of art also needs to be respected. In conclusion, the similarity between Shakur and Beyonce is quite significant, and both are vital figures that have inspired millions of women to fight against unfair treatment and discrimination.
Works Cited
Adewunmi, Bim. “Assata Shakur: From Civil Rights Activist to FBI’s Most-wanted.” The Guardian. The Guardian, 2014. Web.
Elgot, Jessica. “Beyonce Unleashes Black Panthers Homage at Super Bowl 50.” The Guardian. The Guardian, 2016. Web.
Hooks, Bell. Feminist Theory: From Margin to Center. 1984. London, UK: Routledge, 2014. Print.
Peck, Adam. “Police Departments are threatening to Boycott BeyoncĂ© during Her Upcoming Formation Tour.” The New Republic. The New Republic, 2016. Web.
Perkins, Margo V. Autobiography as Activism: Three Black Women of the Sixties. Jackson, MS: University Press of Mississippi, 2000. Print.
Thompson, Becky. “Multiracial Feminism: Recasting the Chronology of Second Wave Feminism.” Feminist Studies 28.2 (2002): 336-360. Print.