Family, friends and 50-year-colleagues gathered at Bed Stuy’s Sista’s Place to celebrate the 85th birthday of Sista Viola Plummer. Dozens of masked, asked and COVID-protocol observing supporters came out to show love, appreciation to the international activist and co-founder of the grassroots, global/national/local community action group the December 12th Movement. Many brought the youthful Mother of the Movement her roses and flowers so she could smell them, and absorb the gratitude which symbolized that of people from multiple nations where the organization had assisted politically, economically, socially and culturally. Attendees included elected former Assemblyman/Councilmember Charles Barron, former Councilwoman Inez Barron, and radio icon Bob Law. A good time was had by all as accolades flowed from friends and comrades such as Roger Wareham, Ahmed Abdullah, Monique Ngozi Nri, Omowale Clay, Erica Ford, and Tahira Moore. The Rev. Herbert Daughtry said on Facebook, “Happy birthday, my sister and friend.”
The Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Butler said, “Viola Plummer, thank you for your many years of committed, effective leadership. I’m grateful for the many years we have struggled together. It’s been a long journey and the end is yet. Many more victories ahead of us! God you and your family. Sis Viola, Birthday greetings to you. You still have that revolutionary fire burning for justice. In love and solidarity.”
Tyrone Shakur, son of incarcerated activist Mutual, sent the message, “Peace and blessings Queen Viola, my father and I wish you all the blessings you deserve for your birthday day. We love you and continue pushing straight ahead.”