The African Blood Brotherhood (ABB) was a revolutionary organization founded in 1919 by Cyril Briggs, a West Indian journalist and activist. The ABB was established in Harlem, New York, with the primary goal of advocating for the rights and empowerment of people of African descent, particularly in the United States.
The ABB emerged during a period of significant racial tension and violence in the United States, particularly in the aftermath of World War I. The organization sought to address the social, economic, and political injustices faced by African Americans and people of African descent around the world. One of the key principles of the ABB was the belief in armed self-defense as a means of protecting African American communities from racial violence and oppression.
Central to the ABB’s mission was the idea of international solidarity among people of African descent. The organization sought to build alliances with other anti-colonial and anti-racist movements globally, recognizing the interconnected nature of racial oppression and exploitation. The ABB also emphasized the importance of education and self-reliance within African American communities, promoting economic self-sufficiency and cultural pride.
The ABB published a newspaper called “The Crusader,” which served as a platform for promoting its revolutionary ideas and advocating for social and political change. The newspaper addressed issues such as police brutality, economic inequality, and the need for collective action within African American communities. It also provided a space for discussion and debate among ABB members and supporters.
In addition to its advocacy work, the ABB also engaged in community organizing and direct action. The organization organized rallies, protests, and public meetings to raise awareness about racial injustice and to mobilize support for its cause. The ABB also provided support for African American workers during labor strikes and actively campaigned against racial segregation and discrimination.
The ABB’s impact was felt not only in the United States but also in other parts of the African diaspora. The organization’s message of resistance and solidarity resonated with people of African descent around the world, inspiring similar movements and organizations in places like the Caribbean, Africa, and Europe.
Despite its relatively short existence, the ABB played a significant role in shaping the trajectory of the early 20th-century civil rights movement. The organization’s emphasis on self-defense, international solidarity, and community empowerment laid the groundwork for later civil rights activism and black nationalist movements. The ABB’s legacy continues to be remembered as a testament to the resilience and determination of people of African descent in the face of systemic oppression.
In conclusion, the African Blood Brotherhood was a pioneering organization that sought to address racial injustice and empower people of African descent through advocacy, direct action, and international solidarity. Its impact on the civil rights movement and its legacy of resistance continue to inspire generations of activists and advocates for social justice.