I Was There Too: a raw, poetic, and lyrical show about growing up in the the Black Panther Party

Spotlight Sundays: I Was There Too: A Performance by Meres-Sia Gabriel, Child of the Black Panther Party Revolution

I Was There Too is a unique multimedia performance about one woman’s inner revolution as she struggles to understand what it means to have been born into the Black Panther Party. Daughter of two Black Panthers (Emory Douglas and Gayle “Asali”Dickson) Meres-Sia Gabriel shares a first-hand account of what it was like to grow up in a revolution that changed the course of history. 

Through family photographs archival images personal narratives live jazz and blues music and original poetry reminiscent of the Black Arts Movement Gabriel takes the audience on a soul-stirring journey. This performance weaves together a coming-of-age story shaped by powerful Black leaders and the impact of impoverishment secrecy and adults navigating the enormity of the movement.

Gabriel’s showcase gives voice to the often-overlooked experience of the children of the Black Panther Party bringing awareness and healing to this softer side of the resistance. 

I Was There Too is written performed and produced by Meres-Sia Gabriel. Directed by Ajuana Black and Musical Direction by Dr. Yafeu Tyhimba. 

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