Meaning: This quote by Bobby Seale, a prominent activist and co-founder of the Black Panther Party, encapsulates the core principle of self-determination and empowerment that underpinned the Black Panther movement. In this quote, Seale highlights the fundamental desire for the black community to assert control over their own destiny and to create a program that is accessible and directly relevant to the people it aims to serve.

The Black Panther Party was founded in 1966 in Oakland, California, during a time of intense racial discrimination, systemic oppression, and social unrest in the United States. The party sought to address the systemic issues facing African American communities, including police brutality, poverty, and lack of access to basic resources and opportunities.

One of the key elements of the Black Panther Party's platform was the emphasis on self-determination and community empowerment. The party believed in the importance of black communities taking control of their own destiny, rather than relying on external forces for change. This concept of self-determination was central to the party's efforts to uplift and empower the black community.

Seale's words reflect the party's commitment to creating a program that directly addressed the needs and concerns of the black community. The Black Panther Party's Ten-Point Program, written by Seale and Huey P. Newton, outlined the party's core principles and demands. It was a succinct and direct articulation of the party's goals and aspirations, designed to resonate with the everyday experiences of black people in America.

The emphasis on straightforward communication and accessibility in the quote underscores the party's commitment to engaging with the broader black community. Rather than relying on complex or inaccessible language, the party sought to communicate its message in a way that was relatable and understandable to the people it aimed to serve. This approach was a deliberate strategy to build solidarity and mobilize support within the black community.

Furthermore, Seale's quote also speaks to the Black Panther Party's rejection of long-winded academic or political discourse that often alienates those it purports to represent. The party sought to bridge the gap between theory and practice, emphasizing tangible actions and solutions that could directly improve the lives of black people.

In conclusion, Bobby Seale's quote encapsulates the fundamental principles of self-determination, community empowerment, and accessible communication that were central to the Black Panther Party's mission. The party's commitment to writing a program that was straightforward and relevant to the people it aimed to serve reflects its dedication to empowering the black community and addressing the systemic issues of racial injustice and inequality. This quote serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of self-determination and community empowerment in the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality.