Fred Hampton

Living… in Chicago in the late 1960s.

Profession… Chairman of the Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party. In his role, Hampton spends his time going all over the city, looking to form new alliances and trying to spread the word of the movement he is leading. He often travels to meet with other BPP leaders of other regions in order to discuss how to move the party forward and achieve their goals. Back in Chicago, some of Hampton’s responsibilities include keeping his party members safe from police, promoting the Free Breakfast for Children Program, and forming alliances with other activist groups around the city.

Interests… the progression of the Black Panther movement, history, speech-giving and his family. Hampton focuses his time and energy into being the best leader possible for his chapter and doesn’t let anything distract him. Hampton is also a historian as he often quotes or refers to historical figures/events of the past while giving speeches. Known for his passionate, inspiring discourse, Hampton is an avid public speaker, as his position gives him a large platform to reach many. As Hampton says, his mission is critical: "America's on fire right now, and until that fire is extinguished, don't nothing else mean a damn thing."

Relationship Status… engaged. Fred fell in love with fellow Black Panther Party member Deborah Johnson. Deborah wrote a poem about their passionate relationship, sharing her fears that their protests will end in tragedy.

Challenge… progressing the Black Panther Party movement while keeping his loved ones safe. When the stakes of an ongoing battle that involves things such as politics, racism and corruption prove to be so high that they become deadly, it puts everyone at risk. Hampton’s position and nationwide reputation caught the eye of not only the police, but also the federal government. With many plotting to end the BPP and inflict real harm to Hampton and those around him, he is faced with a difficult challenge as he fights for his cause. Hampton is completely committed despite threats against them: “There’s strength in numbers. Power anywhere there’s people.”

Personality… inspiring, decisive, fiery, humble, and innovative. Hampton is an innovative thinker, coming up with new ways to reach out to the community while pushing the agenda of the BPP forward. In times of high stress, Hampton keeps his cool and urges his colleagues to do the same; he doesn’t like violent confrontation but also acknowledges that being a pushover is not the solution either.