Paul Boutelle facts for kids
Kwame Montsho Ajamu Somburu, born Paul Benjamin Boutelle (October 13, 1934 – May 3, 2016), was an important activist and politician. He worked to make things better for Black people and was part of the Socialist Workers Party. This group believes in a society where everyone shares resources and works together. In 1979, he changed his name to Kwame Montsho Ajamu Somburu.
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A Life of Activism
Kwame Somburu was very active in politics and social change. He ran for many different political jobs. He wanted to be the Mayor of New York City and the Mayor of Oakland, California. He also ran for a seat in the United States Congress three times. In 1966, he tried to become the New York State Attorney General, who is the top legal officer for the state. He also ran for Borough President of Manhattan, a leader for a part of New York City.
Fighting for Black Rights
Somburu was also involved with the Freedom Now Party. This was a political party made up entirely of Black people that existed from 1963 to 1965. In 1964, he ran for the New York State Senate in Harlem, New York City, as a candidate for this party.
Against the Vietnam War
In December 1965, Somburu helped start a group called Afro-Americans Against the War in Vietnam (AAAWV). He was the first leader of this group. He also worked as a secretary for the Black United Action Front. Both of these groups were very important in organizing parts of a large march in New York City on April 15, 1967. This march was put together by the Spring Mobilization Committee to End the War in Vietnam and aimed to protest the war.
Running for Vice President (1968)
In 1968, Kwame Somburu was chosen to be the Socialist Workers Party candidate for U.S. Vice President. The Vice President is the second-highest leader in the United States government. He ran alongside Fred Halstead, who was the candidate for President. Their names were on the ballot in 19 states during the 1968 election.
Touring the Country
During the 1968 campaign, Somburu traveled all over the United States. He appeared on many radio and television shows to share his ideas. He was on Firing Line, a TV show hosted by William F. Buckley, Jr., in July 1968. He also had interviews with famous TV hosts like Joey Bishop and Dick Cavett. He spoke at many community meetings, universities, and other events, talking to people about his political views.
International Travel
Somburu also traveled to other countries during his 1968 campaign. He visited Canada, England, Scotland, and France. However, his planned tour of France had to be canceled. This was because of big worker and student strikes and protests happening all across France in the spring of 1968. The organization that was helping him with his tour in France was even banned by the French government at that time.
