During times of extreme anti-Black violence, politicians and leaders often promote “non-violence.”
But if white supremacists keep attacking us, it might be time to lay down peace flags and pick up machetes – like the Maroons!
Throughout enslavement, our people led hundreds of revolts. Survivors who escaped were called “Maroons,” and built secret free societies deep in mountains or swamps.
One majorly successful society was in Brazil, population 10,000! Jamaican Maroons also thrived, and their descendants STILL live on land their ancestors cultivated and defended from Britain.
Maroons typically built strong communities outside of white supremacist influence and understood each community member had a role. Another MAJOR reason Maroons were successful? Guerrilla warfare.
Guerrilla warfare is a form of civilian combat used to fight oppressive governments or police states. Guerrilla attacks were strategic and violent – warriors depended on the element of surprise and quick escapes to prevent enemy counter-attacks.
Guerrilla violence wasn’t random. Guerrilla warriors were Maroons or indigenous to the land and communities they protected.
White supremacy is terrified that if we TRULY tapped into our power, we’d take over the world. White supremacists are even appropriating guerilla tactics to push their agenda!
Their fight upholds hatred, while we’re fighting for liberation! Like Maroons we must build strong communities understanding that, at times, violence could be necessary to protect our freedom.