Our June 28, 2008, tribute to Chip in Los Angeles demonstrated our unity and strength and the power of our commitment to free Chip. Our seven-hour event was one of the most significant gatherings of community leaders Los Angeles has seen in a long time. Hosted by KJLH radio host Dominique DiPrima and our event coordinator Sikander Iqbal, the tribute lasted many hours longer than expected because everyone sensed the historic importance of our intergenerational, multi-ethnic assemblage, to resurrect the spirit of the Panther embodied in Chip and launch a new movement for progressive change in this country.
The Committee thanks Ben Caldwell of Kaos Network for providing his beautiful space in Leimert Park; and Paul Hiles of Chef Marilyn’s for his donation of a wonderful meal for the hundreds who attended the tribute; and Gregory Everett for showing his documentary, 41st & Central; and filmmaker Fatima Washington for filming the entire event. We especially thank hard-working volunteers Eric Lambkins, Stephanie Roberts, Ashley Level, Sade Elhawary, Tiana Braner, Kristoffer Ealy, Nafassi Ferrell, Esme Taylor; committed supporters Matt Hart of the LA-ABCF, LA Brown Berets, A.O.A, Building Communities and Families, UCLA African Men’s Collective; and the artists who performed at the event, particularly the great poet Ojenke, and Sadiki Bakari.
