On February 26, 2010, I had the honor and privalege of meeting one of the few remaining original members of the Black Panther Party, Elaine Brown. Those of you who have been keeping close tabs on what I have been doing already know that I have done a Story Traditions with James radio series dedicated to African American literature from Slavery to the Civil Rights Movement. I concluded that series with a discussion on the Black Panther Party. Much to my Chagrin, I have yet to post this series on line (it is forthcoming). You can imagine what a personal encounter with someone of her historical and contemporary stature would be like, especially at the heels of concluding my radio show. I anticipated a large turnout and contemplated how I would be able to at least get photos of the event if anything else. Early in the afternoon, I packed my camera, my two Elaine Brown lps (yes, Elaine Brown was and still is a singer. She wrote and sang the Black Panther Party's Anthem), and a black sharpie. I walked around all day waiting for the event while staying close to the lecture hall, in which she was to deliver her speech. As I paced up and down the halls, I saw one of the organizers of the event and inquired about Elaine Brown's whereabouts and whether there is any opportunity for me to meet her before she gives her speech. This gracious kind hearted young lady, not only told me that Elaine was on campus, but also invited me to a private luncheon where I can personally meet her and ask any question I would like. Well, let's just say my pupils dilated with excitement and my heart muscles contracted with increased rapidity. I followed my new kind hearted young friend to the Chenango Room, where I found Elaine already engaged in a passionate earnest discussion on the state of Black Folk in America, with her small privelaged audience. I sat quietly at my table and listened as a student listens to the teacher and took photos when the moment permitted (see photos). Without noticing, the luncheon came to an end without me asking any questions or getting her autograph. I now had to wait until after her speech. I gathered with the growing crowd in front of lecture hall 1 waiting to be allowed in. Once in I sat to the front, set up my camcorder on a desktop tripod and waited for the speech to begin. I sat and watch her address the media, before she was introduced by a member of the Black Student Union. Once introduced, Elaine thanked her hosts and guests before proceeding into her views on Barack Obama and the state of affairs pertaining to Black Folk. You may see the talk for yourself. Elaine reminds us that nothing has changed, as African Americans are still disenfranchised and the same struggle which she took up in the 60s continues today. Watch film for her wonderful insight. Click here for Film

-O. James

© Orin James 2010