In part two of a series honoring remarkable individuals for Black History Month, the City of Golden Valley pays tribute to Dr Angela Davis. Black communities worldwide have fervently fought for representation, equity, inclusion, and justice, with few as impactful as Davis.
Davis, an activist, educator, and author, has impacted not only the United States, but also Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and South America. Her international reputation rose in the early 1970s, when she was arrested and charged for being an accomplice to conspiracy, kidnapping, and homicide. Davis was subject to one of the most extensive manhunts in US history after being placed on the FBI’s top 10 most wanted list. In fact, once Davis was arrested, President Richard Nixon went live on television to congratulate the FBI, portraying Davis as guilty before being given her due process. Davis was later acquitted of all charges, but this propelled her desire to see justice prevail.
Before her time as a political prisoner, Davis advocated for political empowerment in the Black community through putting others in positions of influence and through educating and encouraging others to use their voices. As an organizer, she inspired action against issues like unemployment and police brutality, promoting peace. She also worked as an assistant professor at UCLA, where then-Governer Ronald Reagan attempted to fire her but courts ruled it as unconstitutional.
As a member of the Advisory Board of the Prison Activist Resource Center, Davis focused on exposing the systemic racism endemic to the US prison system and explored new ways to deconstruct oppression and racial hatred. Check out this YouTube clip featuring Angela Davis from the critically acclaimed documentary, 13th.
Davis’ activism is powerful and her impact is vast. The below resources offer a deeper insight into her revolutionary work. Click on each link to learn more.
Angela Davis on Self Care (YouTube)
“Angela Speaks,” a virtual exhibit at the National Museum of African American History and Culture