Melina Abdullah, a professor and co-founder of Black Lives Matter’s Los Angeles chapter, has been announced as the running mate for long-shot presidential candidate Cornel West. However, there are five things about Abdullah that she may not talk about publicly during her campaign. She was forcibly removed from a mayoral debate at California State University LA in 2022 for protesting the limited audience and exclusion of students and faculty. While she co-founded the Los Angeles BLM chapter, she sued the national organization and lost, alleging misuse of funds. Additionally, Abdullah has expressed admiration for Louis Farrakhan, a notorious antisemite, and advocates for defunding the police, calling for a reimagination of public safety.
Abdullah’s history includes being thrown out of a mayoral debate in 2022 and suing the national BLM organization, which she lost. She is known for her admiration of Louis Farrakhan and has publicly praised him despite his controversial statements. Additionally, Abdullah is a proponent of defunding the police, arguing for changes to the police budget and reforms to policing in Los Angeles. She also was the victim of ‘swatting’ in 2020, a serious crime involving a hoax call to the police claiming hostages were held in her home.
Despite her activism and involvement in social justice movements, Abdullah’s controversial actions and statements have garnered attention. She has been criticized for her close ties to Farrakhan, her opposition to increased police budgets, and her legal disputes within the BLM organization. While she has faced challenges, including being forcibly removed from events and being the target of ‘swatting,’ Abdullah remains committed to her beliefs and advocacy for marginalized communities. As Cornel West’s running mate, she will continue to be a prominent figure in the political landscape.
Abdullah’s experiences highlight the complexities of activism and social justice work, as well as the challenges that come with advocating for change. Her history of confronting authority, challenging institutions, and facing backlash underscores the risks and rewards of engaging in political activism. Despite the controversies surrounding her, Abdullah remains dedicated to her principles and continues to push for social change through her work with Black Lives Matter and other organizations. As a running mate for Cornel West, she brings a unique perspective and commitment to addressing systemic issues and fighting for justice.
The selection of Melina Abdullah as Cornel West’s running mate brings attention to her background, activism, and commitment to social justice. Despite facing challenges and controversies, Abdullah’s dedication to advocating for marginalized communities and challenging systemic injustices remains unwavering. As the presidential campaign progresses, Abdullah’s voice and perspective will continue to contribute to important conversations around race, policing, and social inequality. Her experiences and beliefs offer a unique lens through which to examine the complexities of political activism and the ongoing fight for equality and justice in America.
