David Walker Lives

David Walker
1796-1830


David Walker was a radical African-American writer and orator who is most famous for publishing a small book entitled "The Appeal to the Colored People of the World" in 1829.  This book was the first written assault by an African-American on the institution of slavery and American racism. It advocated Black Pride, self-determination, the importance of education and religion, and the justification of violence to overthrow the sin of slavery.

Walker attacked and challenged Thomas Jefferson (a member of the American Colonization Society) who had publicly stated black inferiority and his wishes to deport all African-Americans back to Africa.

"America is more our country than it is the whites -- we have enriched it with our blood and tears....will they drive us from our property and homes, which we have earned with our blood?"

Encouraging slave rebellion he stated...

"They want us for their slaves, and think nothing of murdering us. . . therefore, if there is an attempt made by us, kill or be killed. . . and believe this, that it is no more harm for you to kill a man who is trying to kill you, than it is for you to take a drink of water when thirsty."

 

Over the last 184 years, David Walker's Appeal has inspired thousands through his writings...icluding Frederick Douglass, W.E.B. DuBois, Marcus Garvey, Dr. Martin Luther King, and Malcolm X.

My hope is that the spirit of David Walker will continue to live in the hearts and minds of all Americans...



Develop a deep love for America...the principles that she stands for...the pursuit of truth, justice, equality...the vision of a better tomorrow....and a deep hatred of her hypocrisy!

"Americans only need to consider their own purported values to see the error of their ways."
                                                     - David Walker