Execute the act of killing or terminating the rainbow, metaphorically speaking.

Ideas that alarm U.S. leaders coexist with those that strengthen their grip on power.

, and ASMedia

2025 September 27 . 3:29 AM

2 min read

Incitement of Violence Against the Rainbow (Symbol)

Execute the act of killing or terminating the rainbow, metaphorically speaking.

In November 1968, a 20-year-old African American activist named Fred Hampton founded the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party. This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey that would see him form the Rainbow Coalition, a multiracial alliance advocating for socialist policies.

Hampton's life took a tragic turn on December 3, 1969, when he was fatally shot by the Chicago police and the FBI in his bed, while he was sleeping in a comatose state next to his pregnant partner. This shocking event occurred just a few months after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., which had a significant impact on the nation.

The Black Panthers, unlike the civil rights movement, advocated self-defense in response to police violence and attacks by racist groups. Under Hampton's leadership, the Illinois chapter also established social programs, such as breakfast clubs and health clinics, to help the most needy.

Hampton's efforts extended beyond the African American community. He reached out to The Young Patriots Organization (YPO), a group of young whites from working-class backgrounds, to fight against racism and poverty. He also collaborated with the Young Lords Organization (YLP), a Puerto Rican group that fought for the economic and social rights of its community members.

The FBI's response to Hampton's activism was the launch of COINTELPRO, an operation aimed at sabotaging and infiltrating the Rainbow Coalition in Chicago, after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. A lawsuit was filed by Hampton's loved ones to seek justice, which reached the Supreme Court and lasted until 1982, revealing the government's involvement and efforts to suppress evidence.

The film "Judas and the Black Messiah," directed by Shaka King, was released in 2021 and brought Hampton's life back into the spotlight, earning six Oscar nominations. The text discussing Hampton's life is part of the Opinion section, which fosters diverse voices and ideas, and does not necessarily reflect the views of Le Devoir.

In a time when the Trump regime is intensifying its efforts to suppress freedom of expression, motivated by recent events, it is essential to remember the legacy of Fred Hampton, a pioneer in multiracial coalition building for social justice. More than a hundred immigrants were laid off by the multinational company Newrest and are forced to return home due to holding closed work permits, a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.

In the face of adversity, Hampton's spirit continues to inspire us to stand together, to fight for our rights, and to strive for a more just and equitable society.