'A Lion has fallen'
Published Feb 17, 2005 10:32 PM
The following column was transcribed from a Pacifica
radio interview with the death row, political prisoner on Feb. 7:
Ossie
Davis, our own Black shining star.
A lion has fallen.
Ossie
Davis, the deep-voiced, proud and majestic man who has performed on stage, film,
television and community centers, has passed from this life at the age of 87
years, leaving behind him the radiant and talented Ruby Dee, his co-star on
life's broad stage, and millions of mourners the world over.
In whatever
role he accepted, he projected a rare and matchless dignity. Ossie Davis was a
brave man who didn't just play one on TV.
At a time when it was
personally, politically and career-wise dangerous, he stepped forth to support
the civil-rights struggles of the 1960s and 1970s and wrote his legacy large in
Black America's history when he delivered the touching and heartfelt eulogy to
the Black nationalist leader, Malcolm X. His words leavened with love and
courage were as much a tribute to Malcolm as they were to himself, for they
reflected a deep and abiding love for Black people, even though seen as enemies
of the state.
Of Malcolm, he would say, he was our own Black shining
prince who didn't hesitate to give his life because he loved us so. Many years
ago, perhaps around 1980, I had the pleasure of interviewing Ossie Davis and his
lovely wife Ruby.
I found a generous, humorous, sweet and deep soul. Ossie
talked about what being in the arts meant to him.
From that spark of
inspiration and the magic of a marriage to the wondrous Ruby Dee, the arts under
both of their singular talents have been rewarded. I asked him about the impact
of their politics on their careers and he easily answered that they always found
something to do, if it was a play in a Black college or neighborhood community
center, for there was no community that closed their doors to their talent and
their spirits. He added that he didn't need much.
But for most young
people, perhaps the grizzled old guy in Spike Lee's movie, "Do the Right Thing,"
sparks memories. In the flick, Davis plays Da Mayor, a street figure who pines
for the attention of his love interest, played by Ruby Dee. This very role
reflects the essence of what Davis and Dee have done for generations now: taken
rather ordinary roles and imbued them with grace and dignity, a reflection of
how they touched the lives of millions of ordinary people by reflecting the best
that is within them.
A country boy from Cogdell, Ga., Ossie Davis inspired
millions through decades of performances in various media with the essential
elements of dignity and the love for one's people. He was a lion, and though he
has passed,
may his brilliant life inspire the lions and giants to
come.
From death row,
this is Mumia Abu-Jamal.
Articles copyright 1995-2012 Workers World.
Verbatim copying and distribution of this entire article is permitted in any medium without royalty provided this notice is preserved.
Workers World, 55 W. 17 St., NY, NY 10011
Email:
[email protected]
Subscribe
[email protected]
Support independent news
DONATE