Artist Ray Webster
Assata Shakur, also known as JoAnne Deborah Chesimard, is a former member of the Black Liberation Army and a political activist. She was convicted of murdering a New Jersey state trooper in 1973, but she escaped from prison in 1979 and fled to Cuba, where she has been living in political asylum ever since. She remains a controversial figure and a symbol of the struggle for racial justice and human rights in the United States.
Assata Shakur's autobiography, entitled "Assata: An Autobiography," was published in 1987 and chronicles her life from childhood to her escape from prison and exile in Cuba. Some of the highlights of the book include:
1. Her experiences growing up in a poor, segregated neighborhood in North Carolina.
2. Her involvement in the civil rights movement and Black Panther Party in the 1960s.
3. Her radicalization and involvement in the Black Liberation Army in the 1970s.
4. Her arrest and trial for the murder of a New Jersey state trooper in 1973.
5. Her harrowing escape from prison in 1979 and journey to Cuba.
6. Her reflections on the systemic racism and oppression faced by Black people in the United States.
7. Her belief in the necessity of armed struggle as a means of achieving liberation.
8. Her commitment to the struggle for justice and her continued activism from her exile in Cuba.
The Black Liberation Army (BLA) was an underground militant organization that was active in the United States from the mid-1970s to the early 1980s. The BLA was an offshoot of the Black Panther Party and other Black nationalist groups, and it was committed to armed struggle against the U.S. government and white supremacy.
The BLA carried out a number of high-profile attacks during its existence, including bank robberies, bombings, and assassinations of police officers and government officials. The organization was known for its secrecy and its use of guerrilla tactics.
The BLA saw itself as part of a global struggle against imperialism and racism, and it sought to build alliances with other revolutionary movements around the world. However, the group was eventually disbanded due to a combination of law enforcement pressure, internal conflict, and a shift away from armed struggle tactics by many activists in the Black liberation movement.
About the artist
Born on July 4, 1987, in Chicago, Ray Webster is a passionate artist known for his intricate ink work, specializing in stippling techniques that beautifully capture light and form. At the age of 12, Ray moved to New York City, where he immersed himself in the vibrant art scene and honed his skills. He studied at prestigious institutions, including Pratt Institute and Cooper Union, where his foundation in graphic design became a significant influence on his artistic expression.
Ray’s work reflects a unique blend of precision and creativity, as he seeks to explore the interplay of shadow and light through meticulous detail. His artistic journey is characterized by a dedication to craftsmanship and a love for visual storytelling.
In addition to his personal projects, Ray is available for commissions, murals, and graphic design work, bringing his distinct style and vision to a variety of creative endeavors. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Ray Webster continues to inspire and captivate audiences with his art.
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