The Philosophy and Platform of the New Afrikan Independence Party: The Political Education and Community Organizing Series: Module #1: Booklet Edition
by Khalid Raheem

The Basic Philosophy and Political Platform of the New Afrikan Independence Party (NAIP)

Founded by Khalid Raheem, the New Afrikan Independence Party (NAIP) is rooted in the pursuit of self-determination, political empowerment, and social justice for people of African descent in the United States. NAIP’s philosophy is influenced by Black Nationalism, Pan-Africanism, and revolutionary thought, advocating for systemic change to address historical and contemporary racial injustices.

Major Characteristics of NAIP:

• Commitment to self-determination and collective empowerment of Black communities
• Focus on grassroots political organizing and community mobilization
• Emphasis on economic justice, equitable resource distribution, and reparations
• Challenge to systemic racism and white supremacy in all forms

Major Influences:

• Black Panther Party and its model of community programs and self-defense
• Marcus Garvey’s Pan-Africanism and call for economic independence
• Malcolm X’s philosophy of self-determination and resistance to oppression
• W.E.B. Du Bois’ advocacy for proportional political representation and civil rights

Defining Politics, Freedom, Racism, and White Supremacy:

• Politics: NAIP views politics as a tool for liberation, emphasizing active participation in the electoral process while also building independent institutions to serve Black communities.
• Freedom: True freedom, according to NAIP, requires economic independence, political representation, and an end to systemic oppression.
• Racism and White Supremacy: NAIP identifies white supremacy as a global system designed to maintain racial hierarchies, advocating for policies that dismantle racial oppression and promote Black self-sufficiency.

Proportional Political Representation and Electoral Politics:

• NAIP calls for proportional representation in government to ensure Black voices are adequately heard and represented.
• The party advocates for strategic political engagement, supporting candidates and policies that align with its mission of racial and economic justice.
• NAIP also promotes alternative political structures that empower Black communities outside the traditional two-party system.

Reparations:

• NAIP demands reparations for the historical injustices of slavery, segregation, and systemic economic exploitation.
• Reparations should include financial compensation, land redistribution, educational investment, and institutional reforms that directly benefit Black communities.

Through its philosophy and activism, the New Afrikan Independence Party seeks to transform the political landscape by centering Black liberation, justice, and self-determination.