We have all experienced the life-altering affects of the pandemic. In THIS INTERVIEW you’ll learn its toll on artist, community leader, and social activist Black King-Spann.
The founder of The Young Black Panther Party took time to answer our “2000 BC Q&A”, reflecting on his life before COVID-19 and how things have changed personally and professionally since.
Tell us what you miss most from life before COVID-19.
Nothing.
Where were you when you learned about COVID-19 and how did you respond?
I was at home when I learned about it. My response to it was very calm because throughout history unknown diseases, viruses like this, happens once every few years.
What, for you, have been the personal and professional benefits, and setbacks, from the pandemic?
The benefit out of all of this was bringing people home to The Young Black Panther Party. Some setbacks, it’s just mine. But other than that [as far as the benefits], it’s amazing.
Do you have faith in the vaccine?
No. I don’t trust it at all. But if other people want to take it, they can take it. What they do with their life is their business. What I do with my life is my business.
Who do you talk to the most to keep your spirits up and help you stay optimistic?
My mom, my girlfriend, and my team.
Has the pandemic caused you to value your life and the lives of others more than you did already?
Yes, because my life matters and other people’s lives matter! It’s been the same way through history, and we keep killing each other! Even though we show love, devotion, and passion, we still hurt each other at the end of the day.
What about your immediate surroundings have you become more aware of?
Enemies. I have enemies that cause me to be more aware of my surroundings and also cause me to be more careful where I go.
What’s something that had to change because of the pandemic that you hope doesn’t change back once it’s over?
The Young Black Panther Party, because we built something to bring hope, to make people feel safe, and to build things that are safe for Black people. I don’t want that to change when the pandemic is over. |THIS.
[By M.J. Walker]
