[BEST OF] Organize, Fight, Win: Black Communist Women's Political Writing
May 8, 2025
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Charisse Burden-Stelly, an Associate Professor and organizer with the Black Alliance for Peace, and Jodi Dean, a Political Science Professor and acclaimed author, dive into their co-edited collection showcasing the writings of Black Communist women. They discuss how these powerful voices from 1919-1956 argue that true racial and economic equality demands the overthrow of capitalism. The conversation also touches on the unique struggles faced by Black women in activism and the transformative potential of their insights for contemporary movements.
The anthology 'Organize, Fight, Win' highlights the essential political writings of Black communist women, showcasing their role in revolutionary thought.
By examining the historical context from 1919-1956, the writers illustrate how intersectionality and anti-capitalism remain vital in the struggle for liberation.
The collection emphasizes the need for solidarity among the working class to overcome capitalist exploitation and achieve racial and economic justice.
Deep dives
The Role of Guerrilla Warfare in Historical Contexts
Guerrilla warfare has been a crucial strategy in numerous historical uprisings, particularly in contexts where conventional military forces dominate. The example of Algeria illustrates how local forces employed guerrilla tactics effectively against French colonial powers, which relied on advanced weaponry. Such tactics allowed seemingly under-resourced groups to challenge and disrupt larger, mechanized military operations. This approach emphasizes adaptability and strategic ingenuity in the face of overwhelming odds.
Introduction to Sources and Methods Series
The Sources and Methods series aims to highlight primary documents and writings from radical activists throughout history. By focusing on the original texts created by such activists, the series provides a platform for deep engagement with their thoughts and historical contexts. Understanding these sources helps contextualize contemporary struggles and the ongoing relevance of these activists' words. The series seeks to bridge the gap between historical theory and practical activism.
The Impact of Black Communist Women's Political Writing
The anthology 'Organize, Fight, Win' collects the political writings of Black communist women, showcasing their vital contributions to revolutionary thought. These writings span a variety of formats, including speeches, pamphlets, and articles, reflecting their diverse activism and intellectual engagement. The compilation serves as both a historical record and a source of inspiration for contemporary political action, emphasizing the importance of intersectionality in the struggle for liberation. The work highlights how these women connected their struggles to broader anti-colonial and labor movements.
Chronological Arrangement and Historical Patterns
The chronological arrangement of the anthology allows readers to trace the evolution of political thought among Black communist women from the early 20th century to the 1950s. This structure reveals changing political contexts, shifts in focus, and responses to social conditions faced by these women. Significant events, such as the Great Depression and World War II, are pivotal in shaping their experiences and analyses. This framing underscores the continuity and re-emergence of themes related to anti-capitalism and racial justice across different historical periods.
Resistance Against Capitalist Exploitation
The writings in the anthology argue against capitalist exploitation, particularly how racial divisions are utilized to undermine worker solidarity. By examining strategies used by the ruling class to maintain control over labor, these women highlight the need for unity among the working class. They argue that solidarity is crucial for effective organizing, calling for the recognition of the interconnectedness of struggles against racial and economic oppression. This analysis remains relevant in contemporary labor movements, emphasizing unity as a pathway to liberation.
Lessons for Modern Organizers
The collection offers crucial insights for contemporary organizers, emphasizing the importance of collective action and principled struggle within organizations. Readers are encouraged to learn from the historical experiences of these Black communist women, who engaged actively in their struggles while addressing internal contradictions. The lessons drawn from their experiences call for commitment to building solidarity across diverse communities. Ultimately, the anthology inspires readers to believe in the possibility of victory through organized, collective efforts.
In this episode of Guerrilla History, we bring on two fantastic guests, Prof. Charisse Burden-Stelly and Prof. Jodi Dean. We discuss their co-edited collection, Organize, Fight, Win: Black Communist Women’s Political Writing, which is an absolutely indispensable resource for those of us serious about achieving liberation! This collection includes writings focused on the period from 1919-1956, which argue that racial and economic equality can only be achieved by overthrowing capitalism. Pick up the book!
