Temple prof praises convicted terrorist Assata Shakur
Temple University professor Marc Lamont Hill wished Assata Shakur, a convicted murderer and wanted terrorist, “safety and protection” on her 71st birthday.
Hill, a professor of Media Studies, posted a photo of Shakur on his Instagram Monday, describing her as “one of our most treasured Freedom Fighters” whose autobiography “saved” his life.
Shakur, a convicted armed robber and murderer, is currently listed on the FBI most wanted terrorist list under her legal name, Joanne Chesimard.
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In 1977, Shakur was convicted for the murder of New Jersey State Trooper Werner Foerster during a shootout between members of the Black Liberation Army, of which Shakur is a member, and the police. Following her conviction, Shakur escaped from prison and fled to Cuba, where she is presumed to be currently residing.
“[Shakur] taught me about the value and power of Freedom Dreams,” Hill wrote. “She showed me the beauty of struggle.”
The FBI states that Shakur “should be considered armed and dangerous” and is offering a one million dollar reward for information that leads to Shakur’s apprehension.
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“I pray for her continued safety and protection. I continue to work to demonstrate her innocence,” Hill remarked. “And I implore the State to stop prosecuting an unjust and unfair campaign against one of our most treasured Freedom Fighters.”
“Thank you Mama Assata,” Hill adds. “Wishing you 100 more years!”
Hill received a flood of criticism on Twitter, where he cross-linked the post. Some users were offended by his adoration of a convicted terrorist, likening it to supporting the 9/11 hijackers, while others argued that supporting the murderer of one police officer is the same as defending all murderers of police officers.
Campus Reform reached out to Hill for his reaction and response to these statements, but has not received a response.
Follow the author of this article on Twitter: @Grace_Gotcha
