Walls of Solidarity: Art, Activism, and the SUMUD Mural Oakland Project

KPFA - Hard Knock Radio

On a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D sat down with Emory Douglas the former Minister of Culture for the Black Panther Party, Nathaniel Moore, Co-Director and Lead Archivist at Freedom Archives, and Jackie Romero from the Palestinian Youth Movement, one of the mural’s contributing artists. Together, they discussed the SUMUD Mural Oakland Project and its role in uniting communities through art, activism, and shared histories of resistance.

Uniting Through Art: The SUMUD Mural Oakland Project

The SUMUD Mural Oakland Project is a transformative collaboration that brings together artists and activists to create a mural embodying resilience, solidarity, and resistance. Recently highlighted on Hard Knock Radio with Davey D, the project emphasizes art’s cultural importance in the fight for justice, particularly within the Palestinian and Black liberation movements.

The Meaning of SUMUD

Derived from Arabic, SUMUD signifies “steadfastness”—a term that reflects survival and perseverance amidst oppression. This concept deeply resonates with the Palestinian anti-colonial struggle, representing connection to land and unwavering resistance. Nathaniel Moore explained that the mural project strives to intertwine the experiences of formerly incarcerated individuals in Palestine and the U.S., emphasizing their shared resistance against systems of oppression.

The Power of Art in Social Movements

Emory Douglas, former Minister of Culture for the Black Panther Party, discussed the crucial role of art as a universal language, capable of transcending barriers and inspiring community empowerment. Douglas shared experiences of censorship and the impact of politically charged artwork, underscoring how art can become a powerful tool that unnerves those in power.

Historic Solidarity Between Movements

The episode delved into the longstanding solidarity between the Black Panther Party and Palestinian resistance, a relationship established long before current global discussions. Douglas recounted early encounters with Palestinian leaders and described how the Black Panther Party highlighted Palestinian struggles in their publications, establishing a foundation of international solidarity.

Building the SUMUD Mural: Liberation Wall and More

Jackie Romero shared her experience with the mural’s “Liberation Wall,” a central piece reflecting themes of resistance and liberation. This collaborative project brought together over 70 artists and organizations, each adding a layer of storytelling that educates viewers on the interconnected struggles against imperialism and colonialism.

Educational Impact of the Mural

The SUMUD Mural is not only a visual work but a platform for education and empowerment. Various sections highlight issues such as women’s rights and land rights, giving the community an opportunity to understand the struggles of marginalized groups. The mural invites viewers to reflect on these challenges while also offering hope and inspiring action.

Embracing Technology in Artistic Expression

The conversation touched on the fusion of traditional art and modern technology. Emory Douglas and Jackie Romero discussed how digital tools are transforming art’s creation and reach. Douglas emphasized the need for traditional skills as a foundation, while Romero highlighted how digital platforms amplify the mural’s message of resistance.

A Call to Action

As the discussion wrapped up, the guests encouraged listeners to engage with the SUMUD Mural and the powerful messages it conveys. They urged everyone to learn about the historical and present-day struggles depicted in the artwork. To explore the mural further, visit sumudmuraloakland.org.

Conclusion

The SUMUD Mural Oakland Project exemplifies the profound impact of art within social movements, fostering solidarity and a shared sense of purpose. By showcasing the connections between diverse struggles, the project reminds us that art can be a catalyst for change, inspiring future generations to continue the pursuit of justice. Through the lens of the mural, we witness the enduring spirit of resistance and the importance of steadfastness in the face of oppression.

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

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