Emery Wright of Project South Talks About Organizing to Fight Against Project 2025

KPFA - Hard Knock Radio

In a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D sat down with Emery Wright, Executive Director of Project South, for an in-depth conversation about the organization’s mission, the enduring legacy of the Black Radical Tradition, and the critical role of grassroots organizing in the face of systemic oppression. Together, they explored the often-overlooked influence of the South in shaping America’s socio-political landscape and the ongoing fight for liberation.

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A Legacy of Resistance and Empowerment

Founded in 1986, Project South was born from the intersection of the Black Freedom Struggle in the South and labor movements like Detroit’s League of Revolutionary Black Workers. Wright emphasized that the organization is deeply rooted in the Black Radical Tradition, a movement focused on the total liberation of oppressed people rather than reformist solutions.

“The Black Radical Tradition,” Wright explained, “is about addressing the root causes of systemic injustice. It’s a fight for the complete liberation of our people and all marginalized communities.”

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Parallel Organizing: Lessons from the Past

The conversation highlighted historical examples of parallel organizing, particularly the Lowndes County Freedom Party (LCFP). Founded in Alabama during the 1960s, the LCFP was a precursor to the Black Panther Party. Its grassroots strategies created alternative political and social infrastructures, empowering Black communities through co-ops, education programs, and local electoral victories.

Wright noted how these efforts serve as a blueprint for modern organizing. “We can’t just isolate ourselves or only push against the existing system. We must build alternatives while fighting for systemic change,” he said.

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Project South Today: Resisting Modern Authoritarianism

Wright discussed the increasing challenges grassroots organizations face under growing authoritarianism. He cited legislative efforts like House Bill 94-95, which targets nonprofits by labeling them as potential threats, and the criminalization of activism as significant obstacles.

Despite these threats, Wright remained resolute. “Fear is natural,” he stated, “but it cannot paralyze us. We must act with courage and solidarity to resist unjust policies.”

Project South continues its work through initiatives like the Southern Movement Assembly and the Get Ready, Stay Ready campaign, which equip communities with tools to address both political and environmental crises. Wright pointed to Hurricane Katrina as a pivotal moment that underscored the importance of self-reliance and collective resilience.

“From grassroots leadership development to regional coordination, we’re preparing communities in the South and across the globe for the turbulent times ahead,” Wright explained.

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A Call to Action

The interview concluded with a rallying cry for collective action and global solidarity. Wright invited listeners to join the State of the South Call on December 14, a key initiative designed to unite communities and amplify resistance strategies.

“We are in a moment of global change,” Wright said. “The future is unwritten, and we can’t let the 1% decide what comes next. It’s up to us to build the world we want to live in.”

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Key Takeaways from the Conversation

• Project South’s Legacy: The organization remains firmly rooted in the Black Radical Tradition, focusing on education, grassroots organizing, and building community-led infrastructures to fight systemic oppression.
• Lessons from History: The successes of movements like the Lowndes County Freedom Organization offer valuable models for creating parallel systems that challenge dominant power structures.
• Resisting Authoritarianism: Collective action, noncompliance with unjust laws, and community readiness are critical tools in the fight against authoritarianism and systemic inequality.
• Global Solidarity: The struggle for liberation transcends borders, uniting the African diaspora, immigrant communities, and resistance movements worldwide.

To learn more about Project South and their initiatives, follow them on Instagram (@SouthernPeoplesPower) or visit their website. As Wright eloquently concluded, “Nobody’s free until everybody’s free.”

Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.

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