Today, we remember the late Fred Hampton, a legendary figure in the Black Panther Party and a revolutionary Marxist-Leninist, who was assassinated by the FBI on this day in 1969. Born in Chicago in 1948, Hampton served as the Black Panther Party's deputy chairman and the Illinois chapter's chair. His contributions as a prominent anti-racist figure and his commitment to multicultural organizing left a lasting impact.
Fred Hampton was instrumental in fostering alliances between various racial and ethnic groups. He was crucial in establishing the Young Patriots to organize poor whites and the Young Lords to organize Hispanics. Additionally, Hampton worked towards uniting Chicago street gangs to end internal conflicts and promote collaboration for social change.
Recognizing fascism as a significant threat to humanity, Hampton emphasized the critical importance of preventing its rise, believing that its impact would extend to everyone. Identified as a threat by the FBI, Hampton faced attempts to undermine his influence through the placement of spies within the Black Panthers. Tragically, in December 1969, he was murdered in cold blood by police who were assisting the FBI during a pre-dawn raid as 100 gunshots were fired into his apartment.
Watch Fred Hampton articulate how those in power exploit racism in capitalist societies to maintain control by dividing the working class and oppressed people. His insightful message remains relevant, particularly during increasing inequality and the resurgence of far-right movements.