The construction of California Highway 17, now known as Interstate 880, in 1940 had a devastating impact on Oakland’s African American community. The highway bulldozed through neighborhoods, cutting them off from downtown and disrupting economic connections, leading to social unrest. This displacement was exacerbated by discriminatory policies like redlining, enforced by the Federal Housing Administration, which prevented Black people from buying homes in suburban areas.
In response to these injustices, Oakland became a hub of activism in the mid-1940s. Various demonstrations, strikes, and protests took place, fueled by excessive force from the Oakland Police Department. Local organizations like the Oakland Community Organizations, Unity Council, and the Black Panther Party (BPP) emerged during this time. Founded in 1966 by Bobby Seale and Huey P. Newton, the BPP aimed to protect Black citizens from police brutality through armed patrols and implemented community programs providing essentials like food and clothing.
Renowned photojournalist Stephen Shames documented the rise of the Black Panther Party through powerful images from 1966 to 1973. His photographs capture the Panthers’ actions, from rallies to community programs, showcasing their commitment to empowering and serving the community. The BPP’s visual identity, including their uniforms and logo, was carefully crafted to convey their message effectively.
Shames and Seale co-authored the book “Power to the People: The World of the Black Panthers” in 2016, highlighting the party’s efforts to build a community through service and empowerment. Shames’ upcoming exhibition, “Black Panthers & Revolution: The Art of Stephen Shames,” at Amar Gallery in London features striking images of BPP activists, including Angela Davis and James Baldwin, as well as local community members participating in programs and rallies.
Shames’ empathetic photo essays shed light on social issues globally and are part of prestigious collections in museums like MoMA and The Metropolitan Museum of Art. His work captures the intensity, energy, and joy of the Black Panther movement, showcasing the resilience and unity of the community during a revolutionary era. The exhibition opens on May 28 and runs through July 7 in London, with a solo exhibition in Los Angeles later in the year.
