NBPP

New Black Panther Party (NBPP) is a U.S.-based organization that was formed in Dallas, Texas, in 1989. Despite its name, the NBPP is not an official successor to the Black Panther Party of the 1960s and 1970s, a point emphasized by members of the original party. The NBPP is controversial for its rhetoric, which includes elements of black nationalism, black supremacism, and a range of positions that have been widely criticized as racist and anti-Semitic. The group's stated goals include self-determination for black and African American people, reparations for slavery, and the establishment of black-only institutions.

History

The New Black Panther Party was founded by Aaron Michaels in 1989. It gained national attention during the 1998 Million Youth March in Harlem, New York, which ended in clashes between march participants and the New York City Police Department. Over the years, the NBPP has been involved in various protests and events, often drawing criticism for its tactics and the inflammatory statements of its leaders.

Ideology

The ideology of the NBPP is a mix of black nationalism, pan-Africanism, and religious elements. It advocates for black empowerment and self-sufficiency, and it has been associated with calls for violence against whites and Jews, which has led to widespread condemnation. The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) and the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) have both labeled the NBPP as a hate group.

Controversies

The NBPP has been involved in several controversies, including voter intimidation allegations during the 2008 United States presidential election in Philadelphia. Members of the NBPP were accused of wielding batons and using intimidating tactics outside a polling station. The Department of Justice initially pursued charges but later narrowed the scope of its actions, a decision that sparked political debate.

Relationship with the Original Black Panther Party

The founders of the original Black Panther Party have disavowed the NBPP, stating that the newer party's actions and philosophy significantly diverge from their own principles of all-inclusive justice and community support. The NBPP's use of the "Black Panther" name has been a point of contention and legal battles, with original members asserting that the NBPP illegitimately co-opts the legacy of the Black Panther movement.

Criticism and Legal Challenges

The NBPP has faced criticism not only for its ideology and actions but also for its unauthorized use of the Black Panther name. Legal challenges have been raised by original Black Panther Party members seeking to protect their historical legacy and trademarks associated with the movement.

Current Activities

The NBPP continues to be active, organizing protests, community programs, and events aimed at promoting its agenda. However, its activities are often overshadowed by the controversy surrounding its rhetoric and the criticisms from civil rights organizations.