A Timeless Voice. A Powerful Truth.
A Timeless Voice.
A Powerful Truth.
and the people speak on Assata Shakur
Originally published in 1980 · 46th Anniversary Edition 2026
Assata Shakur — formerly known as Joanne Chesimard — has always been more than a name. She is a revolutionary, a survivor, a teacher, and a voice that refuses to be silenced.
Assata Speaks brings together some of her most powerful speeches, letters, interviews, and writings — raw, honest, and unflinchingly truthful. Speaking from the heart of struggle, Assata addresses the people directly, calling us to awaken, organize, and fight for a world rooted in justice, love, and freedom.
Originally published in 1980, this 46th Anniversary Edition is a testament to the enduring power of her message — timeless words for a new generation continuing the fight for liberation and self-determination.
It is our duty to fight for our freedom. It is our duty to win. We must love and support each other. We have nothing to lose but our chains.
— Assata Shakur
We must continue preserving history, honoring resistance, and amplifying the voices of oppressed people throughout the world. We must educate ourselves and not be fooled by these “Weapons of Mass Distraction.”
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Bibi compiled and edited Assata Speaks and the People Speak on Assata, bringing together articles, poetry, interviews, and statements in support of Assata Shakur from community activists and supporters.
Author and creator of The Gentle Red Pen: 101 Tips on Becoming the Teacher Who Makes a Difference — a guide reflecting her belief in encouragement, excellence, making learning fun, creating a safe learning environment, and maintaining high expectations for every learner, regardless of grade level.
Now, in this 46th Anniversary Edition, she continues that mission: “I believe we must leave footprints for the younger generation. We accomplished helping our people without the use of AI, advanced computers, or high-tech cell phones. Imagine what we could do now if we put our minds to it.”
“A voice that refuses to be silenced. Every page burns with the urgency of struggle and the warmth of love. This anniversary edition feels like a torch passed to a new generation.”
“Raw, honest, and unflinchingly truthful. Assata's words — gathered with such care by Bibi Angola — speak directly to our times as if they were written yesterday.”
“Preserving history, honoring resistance. This book belongs in every classroom and every home. The speeches, letters, and interviews together form a living archive.”
“Bibi Angola's fifty years of activism shine through in this masterful compilation. A testament to what we can accomplish when we put our minds to it.”
Have you read the book? We would love to hear your voice too.
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Every letter is read — and every voice matters in this archive.
