“The spirit of the people is greater than man’s technology.” –Huey P. Newton

Merritt College in Oakland, California was the birthplace for the Black Panther Party. From the inception to the 10 Point Program (their catalyst for ethics), Home of the Black Panthers is a great overview of their political activism through the 1960s.  It featured interviews from fellow Panthers including co-founder Bobby Seale, Richard Aoki, Billy X, and founding member David Hilliard along with archival footage and rarely seen images, and original artwork from the Panthers’ publication.

The government saw The Black Panther Party as a hate group and threat to “national security” when in actuality they loathed their lack of fear, them standing on the law, walking around with guns policing themselves and their intelligence. They focused on social change, launching the first African American Studies program throughout the country.  They also created community survival programs like the breakfast club for children, which was later “mimicked” by the government.  The Black Panthers were more than just a catalyst for change; they were catalysts for transcending the struggle for freedom, justice and equality for all.

Recognized for its rich history, Merritt College will always be known as the Home for the Black Panthers. Check out an excerpt here. Let us know what you think.