Mutulu Shakur

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Mutulu Shakur

Mutulu Shakur (born Jeral Wayne Williams on August 8, 1950) is an American activist and black nationalist, best known for his involvement with the Black Liberation Army, a militant organization that aimed to bring about the independence of African-Americans. He is also the stepfather of the late Tupac Shakur, a highly influential figure in the hip hop music industry.

Early Life

Mutulu was born in Baltimore, Maryland, but moved to Jamaica, Queens, New York at a young age. His early life was marked by poverty and exposure to racial discrimination, factors that influenced his later activism. He became involved in the black liberation movement in the late 1960s and early 1970s, joining groups that sought to address systemic racism and inequality.

Activism

Shakur's activism was rooted in the struggle for civil rights and the empowerment of African-American communities. He was a proponent of Pan-Africanism, advocating for the unity and solidarity among all people of African descent. Shakur was also involved in the Republic of New Afrika, an organization that sought to establish an independent black nation within the United States.

In addition to his political activism, Shakur was a practitioner of acupuncture and used his skills to treat addiction in the black community. He helped establish the Black Acupuncture Advisory Association of North America (BAAANA) and the Lincoln Detox Center, which provided drug rehabilitation services using acupuncture.

Legal Troubles

In 1981, Shakur was implicated in a series of crimes, including the armed robbery of a Brink's armored car in Nanuet, New York, which resulted in the deaths of two police officers and a security guard. He was also charged with aiding in the escape of Assata Shakur (no relation) from a New Jersey prison, where she was serving a life sentence for the murder of a state trooper.

After several years on the run, Shakur was captured in 1986. In 1988, he was convicted of RICO charges, armed bank robbery, and the Brink's robbery and murders. He was sentenced to 60 years in prison.

Later Years and Legacy

While in prison, Shakur has continued to advocate for social justice and has maintained his innocence regarding the Brink's robbery. His case has garnered support from various human rights groups and activists who argue that his trial was unfair and politically motivated.

Mutulu Shakur's life and work have had a lasting impact on discussions about race, justice, and equality in the United States. His stepson, Tupac Shakur, often referenced his stepfather's influence in his music and interviews, highlighting issues of racial inequality and the need for change.

See Also

• Black Panther Party
• COINTELPRO
• Political prisoner