The Final Call

My interview with Assata Shakur

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Nisa Islam Muhammad

Before my trip to Cuba, I had only read and heard stories of Assata Shakur. I loved her for her passion and dedication to struggle. After meeting her, that love is entrenched in my spirit. I will tell my children and my children’s children about her struggle and quest for freedom.

When we met, her beauty instantly awed me. Her golden locks were swept up and I saw love for me and my people written all over her face. This interview was not easy to get and out of numerous requests she called me late one night and said we could meet and talk about the possibility of an interview.

I came bearing gifts—the latest Jet magazine from USA Today syndicated columnist DeWayne Wickham, two pairs of earrings, a perfume sample and my Prince CD Volume I Greatest Hits. I love Prince’s music and parting with this CD was truly an offering of love.

I explained this to her and she smiled. She accepted my small token of appreciation and we began to talk. She changed my life and left me with a renewed sense of struggle. She has put into practice what many here only theorize.

I am moved by her commitment as expressed in a poem she wrote: "It is our duty to fight for our freedom. It is our duty to win. We must love each other and support each other. We have nothing to lose but our chains."

Read the FinalCall.com Exclusive Interview with Assat Shakur