Ep 1. Black Panther Woman

Afropop: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange, a documentary series about contemporary art, music, and cultural movements across Africa and the African diaspora, returns for its tenth season with an episode titled Black Panther Woman. This episode takes a look at the Black Panther Movement's influence on women of color and how they contributed to the fight for equality and civil rights.

The episode features interviews with several women who were involved with the Black Panthers, including Ericka Huggins, Kathleen Cleaver, and Angela Davis. They recount their experiences and the challenges they faced as black women in a predominantly white male organization during the late 1960s and 1970s. These interviews are supplemented by archival footage of demonstrations, speeches, and other events from the Black Panther Movement.

The documentary explores how the Black Panthers were initially resistant to the idea of women in leadership positions, but eventually, their contributions could no longer be ignored. Black Panther Woman introduces viewers to pivotal figures like Assata Shakur and Elaine Brown, two women who broke through the glass ceiling and played a crucial role in shaping the movement's message.

Elaine Brown became the first woman to lead the Black Panther Party. Brown, who is now in her seventies, shares her experiences in the movement and her own controversial departure from the Black Panther Party. Her story highlights the internal conflicts that the organization faced when trying to balance between progress and practicality.

The episode also delves into how the Black Panther Movement influenced music, from the incorporation of political commentary in funk music to the emergence of socially conscious rap in the 1980s. Artists like Erykah Badu, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, and Dead Prez sit down to discuss how the Black Panther Movement impacted their music and their own personal journeys.

Black Panther Woman recalls a pivotal time in American history and honors the women who played an integral role in the struggle for racial and gender equality. The documentary provides context to viewers who are unfamiliar with the Black Panther Movement, emphasizing the importance of activism, community, and collective power in the fight for justice.

Afropop: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange offers a unique perspective on current and historical cultural events of the African diaspora. Through storytelling, music, and in-depth interviews, the series educates viewers on the struggles and triumphs of people of color around the world and affirms the importance of diversity and inclusivity. The episode "Black Panther Woman" offers a poignant look at a radical group that inspired and continues to inspire generations of activists.