Black Panthers

My initial understanding of the Black Panthers was a very vague one. Actually it had a lot to do with its downfall rather than its influence. I had no idea that theatricality and drama were elements vital to this movement. I was initially doubtful of this connection at the top of page 42. I thought it was just the author's theory to glorify the Black Panthers.
I was convinced of this connection after reading that the Black Panthers were not only political, but culturally empowered. They had their own soul music group, the Lumpens; borrowed from the ideas of Amiri Baraka's theater performances---all while realizing that a return to African culture would not be enough and that a different identity was necessary for the times. Using cultural tactics of theater and drama however, did make their movement successful in reclaiming the 'black power' after years of internalized abuse.
It was interesting reading about Malcom X's metaphor about "house Negros" and "field Negros" only because when you think of the black power movement, you automatically assume everyone is on the same page, fighting hand by hand for the same cause.
It was disappointing to read that Baraka's work was misogynist, sexist, homophobic, antiSemetic, etc. That was truly one of the most artistic parts of this chapter--especially useful in trying to understand the origins of theatricality. It was completely hypocritical and different from Arnaldo Morales--in the sense that he believed if he "hurt someone his work would not be art; it would just be dangerous".
It was interesting learning that the Panthers would follow police officials around; reversing the "gaze of surveillance".
I liked the imagery the author used when talking about the impact/decline of the Panther's on the wider black community: "from activism to despair to gangstar culture that for many was all that was left after radical resistance was supressed".
Lastly, I enjoyed learning that Huey Newton took a strong stand against homophobia in the black community; he also supported the gay liberation movement. To me it's movements that incorporate one another that are truly the most effective.