Chuck Sims Africa

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Chuck Africa born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1959 and was raised in West Philly. He grew up in various small redevelopment houses and/or projects. His parents divorced early in his childhood.

Africa was politicized at an early age. His grandfather, who Africa live with, talked often about history and the second World War. In particular his grandfather discussed current events with Africa and was especially fond of Angela Davis. I was always in search of knowledge and I wanted to be a part of something. I was never close to anyone in my family. Africa was the oldest male in the house and the pressure to be the man of the house led him to working many jobs as a youth such as selling papers. Eventually he turned to stealing in order to help pay the family bills.

Later on in his youth he would see the Black Panthers in the neighborhood and was inspired as well as intrigued by the black militants.

In 1973 Africa was introduced to MOVE. He came home to a few members in his living room discussing everything from the courts to the educational system to religion. Their ideas struck a profound chord with Chuck. He went on to read John Africa's Guidelines. Soon Chuck was an active member of the organization and helped MOVE in many actions in Philadelphia.

This page is part of the Prison Abolition Guide.