Planning for the convention began in 1970 with finding a suitable location. Cities were cautious and unwilling to host thousands of politically engaged Black people not affiliated with a major political party. Eventually Gary, Indiana became the home for the convention.
The convention brought Black people together from all across the political spectrum. Black Panthers, Democrats, Republicans, Socialists, and Nationalists attended. We put our political differences aside to find a way forward.
The leaders who attended were just as diverse as the delegates. Coretta Scott King and Betty Shabazz attended along with U.S. Presidential candidate Shirley Chisholm, Minister Louis Farrakkan, Amiri Baraka, and Bobby Seale. While the presence of political leaders was strong, Black entertainers like James Brown, Harry Belafonte, and Dick Gregory also showed up for the cause.
During the conference a “National Black Agenda” was created. The 68-page document was published on May 19th, 1972 on Malcom X’s birthday. It included measures for a cohesive Black vote, calls for social security benefits, and a call for more humane prisoners rights in America.
Now is the time for Black unity. Following the steps of our ancestors who came together at this convention could lead us to liberation, and it also proves that we can unify regardless of our differences.