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BOBBY AND ELAINE FIRST TO FILE FOR CITY OFFICES

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BOBBY AND ELAINE FIRST TO FILE FOR CITY OFFICES

(Oakland City Hall)-Bobby Seale and Elaine Brown, accompanied by more than 200 supporters, officially filed as candidates for Mayor and City Council woman respectively this week. Oakland City Hall will never be the same.

Amidst a sea of green and black campaign posters and rousing campaign songs, the two Oakland activists for People's Power predicted a landslide victory in the Oakland Municipal elections on April 17.

January 18, Thursday, was the first day for filing. Before 8 a.m., Oakland residents and supporters of Bobby Seale and Elaine Brown began assembling at City Hall to await the arrival of their chosen candidates. A driving rain did not dampen their spirits.

As City Hall employees arrived to begin their day's work, they were greeted by smiling citizens in the cavernous lobby, offering them campaign material prepared by the Community Committee to Elect Bobby Seale and Elaine Brown to Oakland City Offices.

At exactly 8:30 a.m., opening time for the City Clerk's offices, Brother Bobby and Sister Elaine arrived. They moved about the crowd, numbering already well over one hundred, shaking hands, talking and joking, and then proceeded to the City Clerk's offices, accompanied by their campaign coordinators and secretaries. (BPINS's Editor-in-Chief went along in order to miss nothing.)

As Bobby and Elaine began the process of filling out forms and answering questions put by the startled, but pleasant male clerk, press cameras flashed and photographers jockied one another for the best picture angle. By the time they had completed the forms and paid the filing fees, the entrance to the City Clerk's Offices was crowed with those from among the participants who are registered voters. Both candidates then collected, on the spot, the maximum number of signatures of registered voters (100) required to validate their filing applications.

In the rotunda outside the City Clerk's office, this reporter was asked by a sister watching, why people were crowded around the City Clerk's office. When I explained, she expressed the desire to also sign the petitions, but wondered if she would get in trouble as a City Hall employee. When assured that it was her right as a citizen and registered voter and that Bobby and Elaine would immediately come to her defense in the event of any trouble, the sister was taken to the front of the line and happpily signed the petition.

A group of press and radio men and women waited patiently outside the Clerk's office for completion of the filing. As Bobby and Elaine emerged from the office into the rotunda, the media people gathered around the smiling couple as they received the congratulations of friends and supporters.

Speaking first, Elaine Brown announced their official filing as candidates for Mayor and Council woman for District 2, of Oakland. She emphasized that central to their campaign is jobs. "Our main platform issue is jobs", she said. "We believe that as many Oakland residents as possible should be employed. We think everybody should be employed." She scoffed at claims that a program of jobs for the unemployed would cause the raising of property taxes. "There are many areas of funds within the present city of Oakland budget that could be used to provide jobs for the unemployed, job training for the unskilled and other programs to meet

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the needs of the people of Oakland."

Asked by a reporter what kind of campaign they were going to run, Bobby replied: "A campaign that will landslide us to victory. Nobody is doing anything in the Oakland community except us. Everywhere you go you see Elaine Brown, Bobby Seale posters. Everywhere we go we campaign. We're already known throughout the community. People know our work, they know our dedication, they know us. We're one with the people.

"We're carrying out a people's campaign. And, we're going to landslide the election!"

In reply to another reporter's question," what kind of a campaign organization have you put together?" Bobby said: "We're going to have from 2500 to 3000 precinct workers throughout the city of Oakland. We'll carry every precinct. We'll put from five to ten precinct workers in every precinct. We'll pull out every voter in Oakland. Elaine and I are registered Democrats. We'll pull out every Democrat. We're not jiving", Bobby emphasized. "The masses are tired. They're ready to vote for a candidate they know will represent their interests. Oakland wants a change; the people want control of the institutions. We intend to see to it that the city government really begins to serve the interest of the masses of the people."

Asked what policy changes could be expected after June 30, (the date for the installation of the new Mayor), Bobby replied: "Let's take a specific example. This Affirmative Action program in which the city would require its contractors to hire 50% from minority people; we go further. We would implement a program whereby the first 50% would come from the unemployed residents of Oakland. Everybody has a right to a job. That's where we're coming from."

A question directed to Elaine about her responsibility for women's issues received this reply from her: "In the city council I'll be fighting for the rights of all the people. We recognize special problems of women. There aren't enough women in the city council. Many women are heads of households and not recognized as such. Welfare women need special attention; there is unequal pay for women in many industries. But, Bobby and I will be working on these issues together, along with all those issues which concern the people's needs. We'll both be dealing with these issues. Not just Elaine Brown."

Bobby ended the press conference with his now familiar reference to each vote as a small light, with many votes adding up to a beacon of hope, and swung into the singing of "This Little Light of Mine", which was immediately taken up by his supporters. For all but the microphones Bobby's final words were drowned out in the rising chorus of what has become the campaign song for both candidates; sung in a swinging gospel style by the now-swelled crowd of well over 200 persons.

Workers in offices throughout City Hall left their desks and filled the rotunda to witness the triumphant exit of the smiling and waving now "official" candidates for Mayor and Council woman of the city of Oakland.

As Bobby and Elaine slowly descended the great, marble staircase, followed by their singing and clapping supporters, photographers had a field day snapping pictures. Behind Bobby and Elaine a solid mass of campaign posters containing their pictures were held aloft by the joyous and confident

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crowd. The bright green of Elaine's stylish suit matched the green of the posters. Bobby's smile outshown his bold patterned shirt and tie, under a dark brown suit. He wore a stylish, knee-length, beautifully cut beige top coat.

Earlier in the week Bobby appeared at the opening of the sixth community campaign office of his and Elaine's election committee. It is located at 62nd Street and Telegraph Avenue. An overflow crowd of citizens from this integrated community were present, compelling Bobby to speak to them from outside the office. More people were outside than the number that could crowd into the store-front location.

Here, Bobby repeated the main planks of his campaign platform, emphasizing jobs for the unemployed, a greater share of city monies for the needs of the people of the communities, an end to police harassment in the communities and the creation of a People's Police force.

The crowd of nearly 300reflected the ethnic character of the community, which is about sixty percent white and 40% black.

A pot-luck supper was served to everyone; consisting of chili beans, meat loaf, salad, chicken salad, beef stew, coffee, tea and coke, layer cake, cookies and popcorn. All the food was prepared and donated by members of the Election Committee and residents of the community. This office had been open and operating in the community for some three weeks. The occasion was its official launching Open House.

Almost nightly last week the Community Committee conducted Voter Registration classes and meetings around Oakland. Bobby Seale attended several of those meetings. BPINS accompanied him to the one held at St. Augustine's Church at 27th and West Streets on Thursday evening. More than 100 campaign workers and voter registrars came out to hear a report by Bobby on the progress of the campaign.

A highpoint in the evening was a sermon-like oration by Bobby over the humming of the campaign song, "This Little Light of Mine", as the entire hall stood. A spaghetti dinner with potato salad was served, with the first plate going to Bobby. Once again, all the food was prepared and donated by people from the community.

On Monday, Bobby attended a Voter Registrar class held at Grove St. College Gym. Two workers from the Alameda County Registrar's Office conducted the class and swore in the new Registrars. Bobby spoke to the assembled class, thanking them for coming out and encouraging them with a brief report of the progress of the campaign.

On Tuesday Bobby appeared and spoke at the Merritt College "Nickel Festival". The festival was organized by the BSU and the Student Senate to raise funds for student activities at Merritt. The two organizations jointly invited Bobby Seale to attend and speak at the all day activities that were held in the Merritt College Gym.

On last Saturday evening Bobby held spellbound for more than two hours some 200 Palo Alto, California, residents and Stanford University students. Seated before a massive fireplace in the packed Rectory of St. Ann's Catholic Church, Bobby explained the campaign, answered questions, joked and finally led them in a rousing rendition of the campaign song.

Bobby Seale and Elaine Brown are very serious candidates. They are organizing and conducting a communitywide campaign. Bobby is the only candidate for Mayor of Oakland known throughout the city. He and Elaine are the only candidates that daily encounter the Black, Latin and poor peoples of Oakland, answering their qustions, explaining the campaign, asking their advice and welcoming them as participants in a people's

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campaign. April 17 (Votin' time) will prove to this country that people's power is possible in communities throughout this land.
This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine,

This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine,

This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine,

Let it shine! Let it shine! Let it shine!
If you want a job, vote for Brother Bob,

If you want a job, vote for Brother Bob,

If you want a job, vote for Brother Bob,

Votin' time, votin' time, votin' time.

Repeat refrain
Keep unempolyment down, vote for Elaine Brown,

Keep unempolyment down, vote for Elaine Brown,

Keep unempolyment down, vote for Elaine Brown,

Votin' time, votin' time, votin' time.

Repeat refrain
They're so serious, just you wait and see,

They're so serious, just you wait and see,

They're so serious, just you wait and see,

In votin' time, votin' time, votin' time.

ALL POWER TO THE PEOPLE

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IN HONOR OF CLARA WARD

On January 16, 1973, Clara Ward died in a Los Angeles hospital, after suffering two strokes. She was 48 years old. Clara Ward, the great Black gospel singer, will be remembered by the Black community for the inspirational messages she brought to us, with a voice filled with love, in the form of song.

Clara Ward began singing spirituals at the age of five, with her mother Gertrude and her sister Willa. She developed into one of the most talented Black women ever to sing gospel, the music of our people. She was the leader of the Clara Ward Singers, and authored more than 500 spirituals. She started in 50 record albums.

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MAYFAIR BOYCOTT SWELLS

A major boycott of the Mayfair supermarket at 57th and Telegraph Avenue began this week as a result of assault charges brought against a Black mother and her three sons by the supermarket. The boycott is being organized by the People's Committee For Neighborhood Improvement and is being fully supported by the Black Panther Party. Both groups are united in their demand that Mayfair Stores drop the charges against Mrs. Bobbie Johnson and three of her sons, Samuel, 22, Charles, 19 and Andre, 18.

The charge against Mrs. Johnson and her sons arose out of the attempt of the sons to defend their mother against insulting language and mistreatment by the white guard, a common practice in this particular Mayfair store, according to Black customers. In the process of scolding a fourth son, 15 year old Arnold, for alleged shoplifting on the evening of December 13, Mrs. Johnson was shouted at and insulted by the Mayfair guard. At one point during the encounter, he called her, "you big black bitch."

When the older sons protested to the guard against the use of such language toward their motehr, the guard struck the oldest son, Samuel, across the face with a night stick. The police were called in and alleging assault, the guard ordered the arrest of the three sons as well as the mother.

Mrs. Vera Means Silverman, a mother and resident of the neighborhood, upon hearing of the assault and arrest of the Johnson family members, immediately organized a picked line calling for a boycott of the store.

The Black Panther Party learned of the incident from individuals in the North Oakland community active in the campaign to elect Bobby Seale and Elaine Brown to City Offices. Immediately, members of the Party investigated the incident. News spread of the incident throughout the community. The People's Committee For Neighborhood Improvement soon initiated the boycott and asked the Black Panther Party for aid and support.

Bobby Seale immediately contacted Mrs. Silverman to ask what help she needed in her efforts to encourage shoppers to boycott the Mayfair store. Mrs. Silverman explained the situation to Bobby Seale and asked his participation in a negotiating meeting set for last Friday. In a telephone conversation with the chief of Mayfair's Security in the Oakland area, a Mr. Thompson, Mrs. Means had been promised that a top executive from the Los Angeles headquarters of Mayfair Stores would meet with her at

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4 p.m., last Friday, to discuss the demands of the community arising out of the incident. Bobby Seale assured Mrs. Silverman that he would certainly participate.

Arriving at the store for the meeting, Bobby Seale and Mrs. Silverman discovered that no "top executive" was present. Instead, Mr. Thompson and a Mr. Zullo, area manager of Mayfair Stores, together with the newly hired Black manager of the store, Brother Mel Holmes, were present, and the familiar pattern of lies and delaying tactics was revealed once again.

Thompson and Zullo were visibly shaken when they realized Bobby Seale was accompanying Mrs. Silverman. Thompson opened the session by explaining that he was only authorized to hear the complaint. He said that the Legal Department of Mayfair Stores had forbidden him to discuss the incident. Mrs. Silverman immediately protested, insisting that she had been led to believe that an executive from the Los Angeles headquarters would attend the session. Thompson insisted that he could only hear the complaint and recommendations and that he would relay this information to the Los Angeles office. He said he would inform the Committee by 10 a.m. on Monday of the reaction of Mayfair's executives.

Mrs. Silverman expressed in strong terms the feeling of the community about the incident and insisted that the community would continue its boycott of the store until all charges against Mrs. Johnson and her four oldest sons were dropped. She reminded Thompson and Zullo that the picket line manned by the Committee for Neighborhood Improvement had already been effective in cutting down the store's business. She further demanded that Mayfair security guards end their arbitrary and racist acts of harassment against individuals from the community and that Mayfair provide services to the community and "stop charging outrageous prices for their inferior foods".

Bobby Seale then reminded Thompson and Zullo that this very Mayfair store had been forced to close as a result of a unified community effort in the summer of 1971. He explained the impact on members of the community of brutal and racist treatment by supermarket security guards. He described the wider pressures Black communities suffer and emphasized that the community was no longer going to permit businesses which exist on the support of the community to remain in the community without accepting specific and continual responsibility for assistance and help to that community.

Bobby Seale expressed his support of all the demands of the Committee for Neighborhood Improvement and offered his aid and assistance in realizing full implementation of those demands.

Additional demands of the community are:

The hiring of community youth as carriers.

The hiring of Black security guards.

Humane and responsible treatment of community youth by security guards.

More cashiers during busy hours.

Lowering of Mayfair prices and no scab products sold in the store.

Sponsorship by the store of Little League Baseball and other recreational activities for community youth, organized by the Black Panther Party.

A list of these demands were left with Thompson and Zullo by the Black Panther Party.

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BLACK YOUTH BEATEN FOR SUPPORTING BOYCOTT

On Monday, January 15, Ronald Randolph, an 18-year old high school student, was severly beaten and arrested by two oakland policemen in front of his home. He was the victim of an unprovoked attack. The policemen were seeking a way in which to vent their personal harred againt Black people of the North Oakland area during a community boycott of a store.

The actions of the policemen were reported to the Black Panther Intercommunal News Service by Ronald's mother and grandmother, who witnessed the attack. Two patrolmen were watching a group of community people picketing Mayfair Martket, a local chain store. (See article above.) Because they could think of no reason to arrest any of the marchers in the lawful picket, they directed their attention to Ronald as he listened to the protesters. He had come to the store on a minibike, and upon seeing the picket line, stopped to find out about the protest and did not go in. When he rode away, they followed him in an unmarked car without their siren or flasher on, trying to run him off the street. Ronald, not knowing who was following him, dodged through the traffic in an effort to escape being hit. One of the officers tehn pulled his revolver to shoot at him, but because Ronald dodged him he could not get a steady aim; he did not fire. When the young brother rode into the driveway of his home, five blocks from Mayfair, the policemen ran from their car, grabbed him and began beating him wiht their clubs. His mother, Mrs. Ella Randolph, and his grandmother, Mrs. Maxine Lyons, ran out of the house and emplored the policemen to stop. A large crowd of people gathered to witness this brutal act. One policeman reached for his pistol, but was stopped by Mrs. Randolph who grabbed his arm and pleaded that the not shoot her son. Ronald was not able

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to resist the attack, for the policemen had knocked him to the ground. One policeman pulled out much of his hair while beating him. One stood on the brother's wrist while another had his knee on his back. They then threw him into the patrol car. Mrs. Lyons got in the car and said that she wanted to go to the station with them. They told her to get out. They said that she could follow in her car. As soon as she got out of the car, they sped away, not allowing her time to get into her car to follow them.

Mrs. Randolph and Mrs. Lyons tried to call the police station for over an hour after the arrest, but the police department would not acknowledge that Ronald was there. Actually, he was being held in the basement of the police station on request by the polciemen who arrested him, so that they could beat him again after they got off duty. Because Ronald's parents went to the station to check on him, the police plans failed. He was charged with over sixteen traffic violations which he allegedly committed while trying to escape. These charges included running three stop signs (there are no stop signs between Mayfair and Ronald's home). He was also charged with resisting arrest.

Brother Ronald was released on bond three days later. He goes to court this week. This incident is just one example of the brutality suffered by Black people daily at the hands of policemen. Although Ronald's parents will press charges against the policemen, there is littel chance that this system will convict them.

Over sixty percent of the Oakland police department are not residents of Oakland. Due to this and many other reasons, the police force is an insensitive body in our communities. More Black, Mexican-American and other poor people who live in the community and have concern for people must be hired by the Oakland police force. The police department should be controlled by the community.

ALL POWER TO THE PEOPLE

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3 FROM SAN QUENTIN 6 BRUTALIZED

(San Quentin) - San Quentin guards attacked three members of the San Quentin Six on Sunday, January 7th. The first attack was made upon Fleeta Drumgo, who was dragged from the visiting room to the Adjustment Center and beaten while he was still in chains. The second atatack was against Hugo Pinell, who was waiting for a visit. When he protested the assault upon Fleeta, he was also beaten by the guards. Sergeant J. E. Butler, the corrections officer who is in charge of the Adjustment Center, told Fleeta, "We are going to kill you and all of the others (the other members of the San Quentin Six), but not right now. We'll wait for a more convenient time." Fleeta Drumgo and Hugo Pinell were placed in strip cells. Hugo's visitors were still waiting. (Hugo was awaiting news of the earthquake in Nicaragua; he was concerned about the welfare of his relativies who live there.) The brothers were removed from the strip cells but because Hugo ignored the guards' warning to forget the attack while taking to his visitors, he was denied his visit.

A third member of the San Quentin Six, Willie Tate, was also placed in a strip cell. When Fleeta denounced the guards' actions he was again placed in a strip cell, as was Hugo Pinell the next day. Disciplinary charges were filed against Fleeta and Hugo for attacking the guards. Strip cells are small concrete and steel cubicles used by prison officials to demoralize or "break" a prisoner. There is no running water in these cells; there is a hole in the middle of the floor which is the only outlet for human waste. A concrete slab provides the only bed in the cubicle where prisoners are usually placed naked; hence the name "Strip cells". A 1966 court decision outlawed strip cells but when Fleeta Drumgo brought this to the attentin of a guard, he replied, "we don't care aboput the law, we'll do what we want to do and you can tell your lawyers that."

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The other members of the San Quentin Six are Johnny Spain, Luis Talamantez and David Johnson. All of these brothers were housed in San Quentin's infamous Adjustment Center, on August 21, 1971, when prison guards carried out the State's planned assassination of George Jackson. Since that day the California hierarchy, through the use of its corrections officers (San Quentin guards) has maintained a campaign of terror aimed at eliminating or silencing the prisoners who know the truth about George Jackson's murder. The San Quentin Six face charges of murder, assault, conspiracy and attempted escape. In July, 1972, a Federal law suit was filed against San Quentin demanding an end to the continuing brutalization of the San Quentin Six and $1 million in damages as a result of previous harassment and beatings. On January 15, 1973, a temporary restraining order was requested to continue the process of seeking legal redress for the six men.

Attorneys Thomas Whittener and Joel Kirschenbaum cited the attacks of Fleeta Drumgo and Hugo Pinell in the suit which was filed in the court of Judge Stanley Weigel. After saying an "adequate showing" had not been made, Judge Weigel denied the request for a restraining order. The court's ruling will encourage the prison administrators who are determined to kill the San Quenting Six. survival for the brothers is a day-to-day affair. Attempts to kill them are so frequent that the brothers exist in a constant state of apprehension. They do not receive medical attention even though they are often beaten by guards. Insects or feces have often been found in their food.

Before being placed in the Adjustment Center, Fleeta, Hugo, Johnny, David, Luis and Willie were all very effective in educating and organizing in the general prison population. They refused to be degraded and dehumanized by the gestapo-like guards. The state will attempt to annihilate the San Quentin Six because too many secrets might be exposed in the publicity that would surround a trial. More attention must be focused on the plight of our brothers in the Adjustment Center. The people must bring pressure to bear on the system and demand an end to the state's criminal conspiracy against the San Quentin Six.

ALL POWER TO THE PEOPLE

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JUAN CORONA DENIED FAIR TRIAL

When police and sheriff's deputies located the bodies of 25 farmworkers in May, 1971, they were unprepared for what was to come. As they dug up more and more bodies from shallow graves along the banks of the Feather River, the police did not know where to begin the investigation. After all the bodies had been unearthed the police realized that this was the largest mass murder case in U.S. history. Only then did they begin searching for a suspect: anyone who could be even remotely linked to the killings. Juan Corona, who lived nearby, was quickly arrested and branded by the establishment press as a mass murderer. Despite the evidence to the contrary, Juan Corona is presently in Vacaville Medical Facility, unjustly convictd of murder.

The long complicated trial is finally over. The Mexican-American farm labor contractor from Yuba City, California, was convicted January 18th of killing twenty-five people. The jury that has heard this case since September 11, 1972, was deadlocked 11 to 1 for four days before agreeing on a verdict. In Fairfield, California, the site of the trial, Naomi Underwood, the juror who had previously held out, said that she was pressured by the other eleven jurors into finding Corona guilty. She expressed doubts about Corona's guilt. Richard Hawk, who is Juan Corona's defense attorney, has stated that he will use Miss Underwood's statement as a basis for appealing the case.

During this long trial, which was marked by unusual events, the defense didn't call any witnesses. It was obvious that the prosecution had not proven anything. The verdict of guilty is ironic in view of the fact that the case was nearly dismissed on several occasions. At one point, Sutter County Deputy Distrcit Attorney, Bart Williams, expressed reasonable doubts about Corona's guilt. (Williams was hired specifically to prosecute Juan Corona.) During a trial session held in his chambers. Superior Court Judge Richard Patton labeled the "investigation of the case inept; the preparation inefficient and the prosecution inadequate". While cross-examining the state's witnesses. Defense Attorney Hawk continually exposed errors, inconsistencies and contradictions in their testimony. As the trial dragged on it became clearer and clearer that Juan Corona was the real victim. The entire process distressed him so that he suffered two heart attacks during the trial.

The District Attorney's incompetence left many grounds for appeal of this case, still, Juan Corona will need the support of the people. The Black, Mexican-American and poor communities must demand justice for Juan Corona.

ALL POWER TO THE PEOPLE

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PEOPLE'S PETITION: FOR IMMEDIATE PAROLE OF BROTHER DAVID HILLIARD FROM THE CALIFORNIA PRISON SYSTEM OR AN APPEAL BAIL BOND WITH A RETRIAL JURY OF HIS PEER-GROUP

We the people, residents of the world community, in the spirit of revolutionary intercommunalism, do hereby redress our grievances and petition the courts of America and California State Government and Parole Board: That David Hilliard be released from his prison incarceration in the California penal System to the people of our communities on parole or an appeal bail bond.

Brother David Hilliard, political prisoner and a member of the Black Panther Party, was in fact wrongfully convicted on false charges by a predominately white racist jury, as all members of the Oakland Black community were systematically eliminated from the jury selection process in his trial.

In light of these facts, we the undersigned, therefore petition that David Hilliard be granted his human and constitutional rights, that is, parole from prison or an appeal bail bond by the American courts pending appeal of his case before higher courts, and that his retrial jury be of his peers, a true representation of a cross section of the community. NAME
ADDRESS
CITY
STATE/ZIP
IF IN THE
U.S.A. REG. VOTER

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LETTERS OF SUPPORT

The two letters below are samples of many which urge the California prison system to release David Hilliard.

On January 30th, David Hilliard once again appears before the California Adult Authority. we thank the many thousands of you who have already given your support for David's release; we hope that those of you who have not will soon add your voice to the one mighty roar, FREE DAVID HILLIARD!

California Adult Authority

Re: Our letter dated November 26, 1972, in support of the Parole of David Hilliard

Gentlemen:

We were recently advised that our above-mentiond letter in support of the Parole Application of David Hilliard was challenged as to its validity on December 12, 1972.

We strongly protest that challenge. Our organization, composed of more than 2,400 members, is one that is greatly involved in our community… Our involvement in our community has shown the strength of support that Mr. Hilliard is given by those he has helped with the food, medical, clothing and other programs he has initiated or aided.

We are informed that at no point during your challenge to the validity of our letter of support did you face the issues raised by us or note the factors which lead us to believe that David Hilliard must be paroled. Our letter is one of community support, and it reflects the support found in this community for Mr. Hilliard.

We urge you to reconsider the challenged letter and to face the facts presented by it squarely. The injustices imposed upon David Hilliard must be corrected. He must be given an immediate release on Parole.

Very truly yours,
Stephen H. Cornet, Chairman
American Civil Liberties Union of
Northern California, Berkeley-Albany
Chapter

California Adult Authority
Ferry Building
San Francisco, California

Gentlemen:

This is to request that you grant Mr. David Hilliard an immediate release on parole.

I have known Mr. Hilliard for eight years. During that time I have had the opportunity to spend time with him and his family, to observe him in the community. In most recent years I have tutored Mr. Hilliard's children to assist them with their school work. Mr. Hilliard has also visited my home and dined with my family. Therefore, I have had the opportunity to get to know him very well.

Mr. Hilliard has been incarcerated over fifteen months. During this time his behavior has been exemplary. He has devoted his time to serious study and reflection and has conducted himself in a very responsible manner. In a recent visit with him I was deeply impressed with the development of his understanding. His sensitive insight and new conclusions led me to the conviction that he should be released immediately and restored to his family.

As his children reach the critical teen years they need the guidance which only a father can give. I know that his release would aid them in their growth and development. I further feel that such release would permit Mr. Hilliard to continue to grow in a most impressive manner.

In view of the probation report completed before sentencing, in view of the fact that he has served a much longer period of time than is usually served under such conditions in view of his behavior in prison, and in view of his family's need, I urge you to grant Mr. Hilliard an immediate parole.

Sincerely yours,
J. Herman Blake
Acting Provost
University of California,
Santa Cruz

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TEACHER STRIKES CLOSE SCHOOLS IN PHILADELPHIA AND CHICAGO

(Philadelphia)- On January 8th and January 10th city-wide teacher strikes crippled the school systems in Philadelphia and Chicago, which forced a total of over 750,000 children out of school. The teachers' demands were basically similar: pay-raises, smaller classroom size and greater teacher participation in school administration. School board officials maintain, however, that the teacher demands cannot be met for the simple reason that, "there is no money available".

The current situation in Philadelphia represents only the latest of a long history of bitter teacher-school board confrontations. Last September, the State School Board rejected teacher demands for a 6.7% pay-hike. The teachers called an immediate strike. Three weeks later, the teachers went back to work, pending negotiations with state officials. Negotiations between the two parties broke down again, two weeks ago. Within hours after the negotiations failed, the Teachers Union declared the strike had begun. Some 285,000 school children, 75% of whom are Black and non-white, are affected.

In Chicago, the third largest school system in the U.S. -- 650 schools, 558,000 students and 26,000 teachers -- has been crippled by the third strike in four years by the Chicago Teachers Union. The previous two strikes lasted a total of only 6 days, and settlements of the strikes hare made the Chicago teachers among the highest paid in the country. However, due to a $74 million deficit in the Chicago school budget, last year's scheduled pay increase had to be cut. This year, before heavy Black community protest forced the change in plans, the Chicago school board actually planned to lay off all school employees for 17 days, eliminate 1,200 teaching jobs (which would only have increased the bulging classrooms) and reduce classroom supplies.

When negotiations began on a new contract, the Chicago teachers demands were fairly modest: a 2.5% pay raise (representing the amount cut last year), a reduction in class size, better job security, a voice in decisions affecting the curriculum and adequate school supplies. Their overall program would cost $53 million, but, the teachers claimed, Revenue Sharing monies would more than cover the expense. After 20 frustrating and fruitless negotiating sessions, the teacher's strike began. Immediately, in Chicago's Black community, "alternative" schools opened in churches, storefronts and wherever possible.

In Philadelphia, where the school deficit has reached $34 million, the Black community's attempts to keep the schools open have run into a stone

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wall -- a blokade thrown up by ex-cop, Mayor Frank Rizzo. Responding to a prominent Black minister, the head of a group of 100 concerned community people who went to the mayor's office on the opening day of the strike, Rizzo disrespectfully replied, "You're quite an actor. yout ought to get a job on the side with Barnam and Bailey." Despite the fact the assistant school superintendent estimates that over 40-45% of Philadelphia's school children are "functional illiterates", Rizzo continues to ignore their plight. He has publicly stated he is ipposed to pay raises for teachers (or a similar pay-scale for "get-set" day care employees, many of whom are Black). Rizzo, favors, however, more money to police and firemen who, 10 days before the teacher's strike, approached him for pay raises and new fringe benefits. As one community mother remarked, "How can you do anything in a city where the mayor (Rizzo) tells uou he's happy his daughter doesn't teach here."

Meanwhile, a group of community lawyers have files a suit against Rizzo, the Philadelphia school board president and the president of the city council, for failure to provide adequate funds for education. A Black city councilman has also introduced legislation to provide immediate funds for public schools with $24 million to be gradually repaid t the city banks. Yet, on Friday, January 19, negotiations between the striking teachers and the city were "indefinitely suspended".

The current school crisis in Philadelphia and Chicago should only be understood as the most open and blatant aspects of a situation which is rapidly worsening. Just this past December, Detroit schools narrowly averted a strike. Throughout October and November, Oakland schools were in chaos for weeks. In countless cities, school budgets are in the red, and large teachers strikes are but a step away. Last week Nixon's budget-cutters announced plans to slash federal aid to public school education by about 10%. This would be disasterous.

We know that funds are available or can rapidly be made available to provide our children with an adequate educations. Swift negotiations are possible. Community people should, in fact, be ative participants in any and all negotiations between the teachers and the cities.

ALL POWER TO THE PEOPLE

-- 6 --

BLACK WOMAN'S HOME COLLAPSES

Mrs. Bernice Brown and her family lived through a terror-filled night, January 3rd, when their home in West Oakland collapsed while she and her family were inside (as reported during an interview with Mrs. Brown). Mrs. Brown told the Black Panther Intercommunal News Service that the house would have fallen over completely if the house beside it had no been close enough for it to lean against as the foundation crumbled. Fortunately, Mrs. Brown was only slighly hurt when she fell from her porch steps as they collapsed under her. At the time, she was fleeing the house carrying her year old baby girl, as her other two children followed. Mrs. Brown said, "If a neighbor had not caught me as I fell, I would probably have fallen on my baby and crushed her."

Mrs. Brown had not been living in the home very long. When she moved in the owner of the house, Helen Bryson, promised her tht the home would be remodeled and a new foundation installed. Mrs. Bryson knew the

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poor condition of the home, and was responsible for having the repairs made. Mrs. Brown stated, "She hasn't offered to help me move or relocate, or pay for any damage at all. It's nobody's fault but hers. She could have had the house repaired. She's not thinking about me. She's only thinking about that money." Mrs. Brown added. "It's very frustrating. Things that I've worked to hard for are broken up. All my furniture now is propped up."

Mrs. Brown's neighbors, interviewed by the Black Panther Intercommunal News Service, told of hearing a loud, crashing sound late at night. As one neighbor said, "It was one of the most shocking things I've ever heard of. These houses are never fixed by the people who own them. It's a real shame."

The housing in West Oakland is the most deplorabel in the city. The houses are old and run down, and slumlords refuse to repair them; their love of money breeds contempt for the poor who rent their neglected properties.

ALL POWER TO THE PEOPLE

-- 7 --

CIVIL RIGHTS ERA CONVICTIONS UPHELD

(Danville, Virginia) - The Virginia State Supreme Court recently reached a decision upholding the conviction of 15 people who were charged with resisting arrest during a confrontation between Danville police and civil rights demonstrators in June of 1963. It was ten years ago that this small southwestern Virginia city, a city known as the "last capital of the confederacy", upheld its infamous legacy.

In the early 1960's, Black people all over America began to rise up and take a stand against the racist laws and policies of the federal, state and local governments. Most of us vividly remember the peaceful, nonviolent tactics used by civil rights demonstrators of those years. Equally vivid are the vicious dogs, cattle prods, fire hoses and other forms of physical violence used against us by the police and other "unofficial" representatives of the State. The majority of these battles, though by no means all of them, were fought in the South.

On June 10, 1963, approximately 100 demonstrators were arrested on charges of violating both a local parade ordinance and a hastily-passed city court injunction which banned parades in Danville. (Both were later struck down in a higher court as unconstitutional). While these brothers and sisters were in jail, more demonstrators gathered in an alley adjacent to the Danville courthouse. They knelt in prayer, in symbolic act of support for those who had been arrested. Suddenly, their bowed heads became open targets for police clubs and bats carried by white racist police and "deputized" city garbage collectors. Flailing night sticks cracked open human skulls and young Black children's blood spattered the streets of Danville, along with the blood of their parents. Any Black person who was in the area was mercilessly beaten by the police. It was a massacre, a night never to be forgotten.

Now, ten years later, the State Supreme Court has announced its decision. The convictions this decision upheld were originally imposed in the court of Judge Archibald Aicken. Aicken's court was notorious even in 1963 for its policy of seating Black people in the rear of the courtroom, and whites in the front. His decisions, many of which were written before testimony was even heard, rendered some of the most overtly racist judgements in the South. Aicken was also one of the first judges to carry a pistol into court with him. He kept it, ready to fire, at his side.

One of the men whose lives have been affected by the unfounded State Supreme Court decision is Rev. Lawrence Campbell. A leader in the Danville marches and one of the 15 people convicted in Judge Aicken's court, Rev. Campbell, a long-tkime political activist, may have to serve 250 days in jail and pay a $1,200 fine. Yet, talking with Rev. Campbell, it is evident that his spirit remains high, his determination undaunted.

To the Black and poor community of Danville, the fight to transform a city that was the capital of the Civil War era's confederacy, into a city where the rights of all people are respected, did not end in 1963. The people of Danville are still struggling to end the unemployment, racism and brutality that has existed for over 400 years.

ALL POWER TO THE PEOPLE

-- 7 --

PEOPLE'S PERSPECTIVE

ANOTHER PILOT WON'T KILL

The Air Force has admitted that another pilot refused to fly combat missions over North Vietnam during the heavy Christmas bombing raids. Captain Dwight J. Evans, pilot of an F-4 Phantom fighter bomber, refused to attack for humanitarian reasons. Captain MIchael Heck, a B-52 commander, had earlier refused to fly on bombing raids. The Air Force will not release information about pilots who have refused to attack North Vietnam.

STEEL PLANT RACISM

The Labor Department charged the Bethlethem Steel Corporation with failure to overcome the effects of racial discrimination. The company was ordered to change the seniority system at the Sparrows Point plant in Baltimore, Maryland, in order to assure Black people of better job opportunities. Bethlehem Steel is the largest company ever ordered to take affirmative action to correct discrimination against minorities.

ZAMBIA-RHODESIA CONFLICT

There are reports of gunfire between Zambian troops and South African police on the border between Zambia and Rhodesia. The border was closed a week ago by Rhodesia, attempting to thwart liberation fighters operating from Zambia. Rhodesia keeps a number of South African police in the country to assist local police in repressive measures against the Black majority.

WHITE TOKEN SAILOR
CHARGED

The Navy finally charged a white sailor with assault stemming from the rebellion which took place on the aircraft carrier Kitty Hawk. The racist posture of the Navy was not abandoned though. Naval officials announced court-martial plans for 16 more sailors; all of whom are Black.

OAKLAND COPS DRUNK
AGAIN

Five Oakland, California, policemen were suspended for idling and drinking while on duty. The incident occurred in October but the officers were not suspended until January 14th. The policemen, including a lieutenant and three sergeants were observed sitting in a restaurant, drinking while watching a World Series baseball game.

-- 8 --

BLACK PRISONERS REQUEST TUTORS

Vacaville's Black Culture Association (BCA) is making an appeal for tutors in the theater arts from Black community theater artists and workers. This was revealed at a meeting last week of the BCA at the Vacaville, California, prison Medical Facility.

Brother Herman Brown (Mumba), Chairman of the BCA Drama Committee said: "We are presently in dire need of contact with and the involvement of Black community drama groups and workshops." Brother Brown said that in addition to tutors, his group urgently needs books and articles on Black theater and general techniques and skills.

The tall, scholarly looking Brother added: "We also need plays on Black themes. Our objective is to use drama to raise the level of understanding of our BCA members."

Of special importance, Brother Brown pointed out, is aid and assistance in the production of dramas requiring the minimum of props, simple sets and bare stage techniques. The special oppressive circumstances of the prison situation made this necessary, he said. A recent production of the Drama Committee was stopped midway in its presentation before prisoners because, according to prison guards, the stage props violated regulations on security.

In addition, mastery of the techniques of pantomime is very necessary, Brother Brown emphasised. "The ability to express an idea or an emotion by use of gestures and action, without the spoken word, would greatly increase the range of out ability to speak to the inmates", he said.

The Drama Committee of the BCA is planning a new production of a play written by one of its members. It is encouraging other members of BCA to join in its efforts, as actors, stage technicians and playwrights.

Through it's outside coordinator, Jim Mayfield, BCA involves community persons in its activities. Weekly, Friday evening meetings are attended by outside members of BCA and invited guests. Those interested in providing tutorial service to the Drama Committee should make their arrangements through Brothers Mayfield to attend BCA meetings and Drama Committee meetings.

Persons interested in information about the Black Culture Association and how they may contribute to its several efforts to provide meaningful alternatives, Black alternativies for the Brothers at Vacaville, should write to the following address:

The Black Culture Association, Inc. c/o Outside Sponsor, P.O. Box 2000 Vacaville, California 95688.

Persons wishing to send materials, including books, articles, plays or any other information on the theater arts should send them to the above address.

The Brothers in Vacaville Medical Facility, like our incarcerated Brothers and Sisters throughout this land, are in great need of every help and assistance those outside can provide to help them withstand and conquer the dehumanizing effects of the prisons of this country.

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SUPPORT THE SAMUEL L. NAPIER INTERCOMMUNAL YOUTH INSTITUTE

The Samuel Napier Intercommunal Youth Institute is a school designed to help our children think. It is located in the Oakland Bay Area and it points out through example that other schools have provided only the most basic courses; courses that have little relevance to the survival of poor people. We are trying to expand the concept that the whole world is the children's classroom.

The youth at Samuel Napier receive instruction in language arts, mathematics, science, health, physical education, political education and people's art. All of these courses are geared to the development of a well-rounded human being.

We need the help of all interested people in making our school run smoothly. Since its inception in 1970, its enrollment has rapidly increased. We need more instructors; instructors with everchanging ideas to cope with the everchanging ideas of the children.

If you have teaching skills and can donate some of your time, please contact the Black Panther Party at 8501 East 14th Street, Oakland, California; or phone 638-0195. The children, our youth, are our future. Without their growth, we, as a people, cannot survive.

ALL POWER TO THE PEOPLE

-- 12 --

INTERCOMMUNAL NEWS: U.N. INVITES AFRICAN FREEDOM FIGHTERS

Part of the over-all activity generated by the various liberation movements in Africa has been the development of world-wide concern and support. Diplomatic arrangements and ties between the liberation movements and particular countries and organizations both within the continent of Africa and throughout the world have also aided the movements in many ways.

In the following article, we will look at the historical context that the relationship of the United Nations and African Liberation Movements have developed, as well as new U.N. suggestions and resolutions which show the world-wide support these liberation movements have began to receive.

"…the Special Committee, bearing in mind the progress towards independence and freedom made by the national liberation movements in Angola, Guinea (Bissau) and Cape Verde, Mozambique, Namibia and Southern Rhodesia, both through their struggles and their reconstructive programmes decided without objection to consider inviting, in consultation with the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and throughtout, the representatives of the liberation movements concerned to participate whenever necessary and in an observer capacity, in its proceedings relating to their respective countries."

In late September 1972, and United Nations took highly favorable action (on the above proposal) and greatly strengthened the "legitimacy" of a number of African liberation movements. By a 79 to 13 vote, the General Assembly agreed to permit the participation of the liberation movements in Angola, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Rhodesia and Namibia in one of the more important U.N. Committees, the influential Fourth (Trust and Non-Self Governing Territories) Committee. It is the task of the U.N. Fourth Committee to conduct proceedings, hearings and investigations into the progress oppressed peoples are making towards independence and liberation. Although the African liberation movements can only sit in an observer capacity when their own respective countries are being discussed, the passage of this U.N. proposal represents a giant step forward; a movement away from the biased one-sided reports submitted by deceitful colonial authorities and white settler governments. Representatives of the liberation movements had previously expressed their wished to participate.

It was one opf the Fourth Committee's special committees which wrote the statement approved by the General Assembly. This special sub-group has the job of guiding the implementation of the historic U.N. "Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples." Adopted by the U.N. in 1960, this Declaration reaffirms faith in fundamental rights and upholds the dignity of all humankind: "Recognizing the passionate yearning for freedom in all dependent peoples and the decisive role of such people in the attainment of their independence… "Believing that the process of liberation is irresistable and irreversable… "Convinced that all people's have an inalienable right to complete freedom…" The Declaration goes on: "Solemnly proclaims the necessity of bringing to a speedy and unconditional end colonialism in all its forms and manifestations…"

Since its adoption, the "Declaration of the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples" had provided a strong foundation for many U.N. activities and decisions.

Although the United Nations is considered by many as backwards, old, obselete and a block to the development of a world community, obviously the African liberation movements disagree. While the U.N. is certainly not the most progressive organization, particularly deue to the presence of the United States and other reactionary governments, they feel that it can provide a forum for the discussion of crucial African issues and thereby influence world opinion. The U.N. can also provide funds for the liberation movements, first-aid supplies, educational materials, all of which are important in maintaining the forward thrust of the struggle. The recent 79 to 13 vote testifies to the support these movements have gained; considering that U.S., England, France, Australia, Canada and Portugal were among the 13 who voted "No". The vote draws a line between enemies and friends. We view the recent inclusion of the African liberation movements in the United Nations Fourth Committee as a small advance, a step forward, in the goal of the liberation of all oppressed people throughout the world.

ALL POWER TO THE PEOPLE

-- 14 --

TO DIE FOR THE PEOPLE

The Writings of

HUEY P. NEWTON

With an honesty as rare as it is persuatsive, Huey P. Newton, founder of the Black Panther Party, reocrds its internal struggles, rivalries and contradietions -- convinced that only by recognizing these contradictions and building from them can the Party "clarify and advance the struggle."

Random House Clothbound - $7.95
Vintage Paperbound - $1.95

-- 15 --

A PROGRAM FOR SURVIVAL

Free Breakfast Program

Provides children a free, hot breakfast every school morning.

Peoples's Free Food Program

Provides free food to Black and other oppressed people.

Liberation Schools

Provides free educational facilities and materials to Black and other oppressed children to promote a correct view of their role in the society.

Intercommunal Youth Institute

Provides Black and other oppressed children with a scientific methos of thinking and analyzing things, basic skills for living in the society and a concrete alternative to established learning institutions.

Legal Aid Educational
Program

Provides full legal assistance to those involved in legal problems, as well as legal aid classes.

Free Busing to Prisons
Program

Provides free transportation to prisons for families and friends of incarcerated men and women.

Free Commissary for Prisoners
Program

Provides imprisoned men and women with the funds to purchase necessary commissary items inside the prison.

David Hilliard People's Free
Shoe Program

Provides free shoes to the people made at he David Hilliard Free Shoe Factory and elsewhere.

Seniors Against A Fearful
Environment (S.A.F.E.) Program

Provides free transportation and escort service for senior citizens to and from community banks the first of each month.

People's Free Community
Employment Program

(Being Implemented)

Provides free job-finding services to poor and oppressed people who cannot find work.

Peoples Free Medical Research
Health Clinics

Provides fee medical treatment and preventative medical care for the people.

Peoples Free Plumbing and
Maintenance Program

Provides free plumbling and repair services to improve people's housing conditions.

Community Cooperative
Housing Program

(Being Implemented)

Provides decent housing, cooperatively owned and managed by the resident families.

People's Sickle Cell Anemia
Research Foundation

Instituted to test and establish a cure for Sickle Cell Anemia, to create beter educational programs around Sickle Cell Anemia and maintain an advisory committee of doctors already researching Sickle Cell Anemia.

People Free Clothing Program

Provides new, stylish and quality clothing free to the people.

Intercommunal News Service

Provides news and information about the Black and other oppressed communities throughout the U.S. and the world.

Free Pest Control Program

Free household extermination of rats, roaches, ants and other disease carrying pests and rodents.

People's Free Ambulance
Service

(Being Implemented)

Providing free, 24-hour speedy transportation to people in need of emergency medical care.

People's Free Dental
Program

(Being Implemented)

Provides free dental check-ups and treatment for the people, as well as an educational program for dental hygiene and preventative dental care.

People's Free Optometry
Program

(Being Implemented)

Provides free eye examinations, treatment and eye correctional equipment (glasses, etc.) for the people.

-- [16] --