Assata Shakur, born as JoAnne Deborah Byron in 1947, has been labeled one of the world’s most-wanted terrorists by the U.S. government. She has also described herself as a “20th-century escaped slave,” comparing her life to historical Black freedom fighters such as Nat Turner and Harriet Tubman.
Early Life and Radicalization
Shakur grew up between Queens, New York, and Wilmington, North Carolina. Her upbringing in a segregated South, with strong family values, fostered a robust sense of pride in her Black identity. This was pivotal in her radicalization during the civil rights movement, where she witnessed widespread poverty and police brutality.
Activism and the Black Panther Party
Shakur joined the Black Panther Party amid the FBI’s covert operations to undermine Black liberation movements, particularly through COINTELPRO. Facing surveillance, she transitioned to the Black Liberation Army, an underground group committed to anti-racism and anti-capitalism.
Legal Troubles and Conviction
By the early 1970s, Shakur had received ten indictments, although only one led to a conviction. In 1977, she was found guilty by an all-white jury for the murder of a New Jersey state trooper during a police shootout, despite her claims of innocence.
Motherhood and Prison Escape
Shakur gave birth to a daughter named Kakuya while imprisoned. After helping plan her escape from prison in 1979, Shakur went into hiding. The separation from her daughter brought immense emotional suffering for both, particularly Kakuya, who hoped to reunite with her mother.
Life in Exile
Following her escape, Shakur was smuggled into Cuba, where she was granted asylum. She lived openly, working as a translator and continuing her advocacy against oppression. However, in 2005, her status shifted as the FBI labeled her a domestic terrorist, and in 2013, she became the first woman on the FBI’s most-wanted list.
Impact on Family and Legacy
- Shakur’s activism and life choices resulted in a $2 million bounty on her head.
- Kakuya stopped visiting her mother due to fears of revealing her location.
- The emotional cost of their separation defined Kakuya’s life and longing for connection.
Shakur viewed herself as a symbol of freedom and resistance. Even in exile, her legacy continues to provoke discussions about race, identity, and sacrifice in the fight for liberation. Despite the costs, she remained steadfast in her beliefs and struggles, leaving an indelible mark on history.
