What connotations come to mind when you think about the panther? Strong, powerful, dominant and fearless- it could be said that the controversial Black Panther Party embodied these characteristics. There are however, alternative characteristics associated with the panther; characteristics that fail to capture the essence of the animal in such a favourable light. What about predator, dangerous and even a beast that is capable of heinous violence.
The Black Panther Party without a doubt possessed all of the characteristics of a panther. Yes, they were strong and powerful, being the first black political organisation to actually stand up and be heard at a time when black people did not have a voice (The clenched fist, the renowned symbol of black power was created by the Black Panthers). Of course they had tremendous effects on the attitudes of young black people of the time, It created a new positive air of self worth. However, the methods of the Black Panthers were all wrong. They were dangerous, ALWAYS using force to be heard. Take their attire for example, often military jackets, hats, the afro and complete with a huge gun strapped to their chest, intimidating to say the least. To this day the Panthers are admired by black people as if they were heros. (their politics have even sparked the creation of the New Black Panther Party. a modern version of the original organisation.) Little emphaisis is given to their violent side.
Iinteresting read, something many people probably wouldn’t notice. And I agree, seemingly using force isn’t the best way to approach attempting to create a harmonious society.
They sure are. But like most groups they start out with a good plan but are eventually corrupted. Unfortunately all people think of is PRO BLACK ANTI EVERYTHING ELSE and the New Black Panther Party which has no connection with the original do not help.