The first point was we wanted power to determine our own destiny in our own black community. And what we had done is, we wanted to write a program that was straightforward to the people. We didn't want to give a long dissertation.

I think the American Dream should be about a greater progressive legislation that allows for what I call a necessary future world of cooperational humanism.

The people have now come to realize that the only way to deal with the oppressor is to deal on our own terms and this was done.

To develop political and economic power in a capitalist society, you need capital.

I'd have no trouble being the barbecue kingpin of America. I'd just add it to all the other things I am: jazz musician, carpenter, architect, engineer and revolutionary.

Our position was: If you don't attack us, there won't be any violence; if you bring violence to us, we will defend ourselves.

I am not a hoodlum. I'm a community organizer.