Atno Smith Papers

Collection

Identifier: MG -NWK Smith

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

This collection contains some papers and fliers from the Black Panthers in Newark and New Jersey in the 1970s through today, as well as items from Mr. Smith's life including the funeral program of his brother Roger.

However, the bulk of the collection is a valuable group of revolutionary publications that show where members of the party were getting ideas and influence during the time period. Publications range from the Young Lord's Palante to Monhonk Nations Akwesasne Notes to the National SNCC Monthly. There are also many issues of Black Panther and Right On publications.

Dates

1966 - 2016

Conditions Governing Use

Photocopying of materials is limited and no materials may be photocopied without permision from library staff. Researchers wishing to publish, reproduce, or reprint materials from this collection must obtain persmission.

Biographical / Historical

Atno Smith (b. 1953) was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey. He had one brother, Roger Smith. He graduated class of 1970 from Arts High School and his yearbook caption said "can be rather radical at times." Atno and his brother Roger were involved in foundin the Newark Student Union and Roger was involved in the Conklin Hall takeover in 1969. Atno was involved in activism at Rutgers including a "paint-in" in 1971.

Both Roger and Atno were involved in the Black Panther Party. Atno joined as a "Panther Youth" in 1968.

They also worked with groups like Students for a Democratic Society, the Socialist Worker's Party, and the Youth League. As a coalition, the group worked to diversify and improve the board of Essex Legal Services.

Atno is featured in the book "The Black Panthers: Portraits from an Unfinished Revolution."