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Attica

On September 9, 1971, 1200 prisoners at Attica State Prison in upstate New York seized control of the prison demanding better living, working and educational conditions. The rebellion lasted for four days until the New York State Police stormed the prison killing 29 prisoners and 10 hostages.

Documents

7 Documents Found

Big Black speaks at Attica anniversary event

Call Number: PM 052Format: CassetteProgram: Prison MovementCollection: Attica

Big Black (Frank Smith) speaks about “where we should see ourselves in 1977”; US as prison state; need for intra-racial and inter-racial solidarity; responsibility and commitment to political organizing; ends with Q and A session

Attica Prison Rebellion

Collection: Attica

Frank "Big Black" Smith and L.D. Barkley, who proclaimed the Attica Manifesto, and Elizabeth Fink, an attorney for the Attica Brothers. Barkley was killed in the massacre. Smith survived mass torture to help lead the eventually successful legal battle on behalf of the Attica Brothers.

Attica 1971

Call Number: PM 260 AFormat: Cass ACollection: Attica

During the radio show, the Attica prison takeover was currently in action. Beginning with folk music, the radio host gives insightful information about the prison struggle through thoughtful spoken word. The host also provides current news about the rebellion, George Jackson, Juan Ortiz, prison conditions, negotiations, hostages (guards), Rockefeller, and the demands of many inmates being sent in exile to a non-imperialist country. The radio show ends with readings from black women poets.