The Black Panthers organization is briefly covered in some history books though typically not in enough depth for high school students to understand how significant the organization was in the Civil Rights movement and as an inspiration for the Black Lives Matter movement. Starr's home is greatly influenced by the Black Panthers with her father referring to members, principles, and posting images in the home and his work. It is imperative for students to be able to understand these references as the Black Panther movement and its practices are so instrumental to the action of the novel. This article provides a neutral, brief synopsis of the organization's foundation, key leaders, and influence. The language and lexile are appropriate for grade level juniors.

Classroom applications of this website could be: whole class read followed by individual completion of key facts sheet; independent read followed by individual completion of key facts sheet; think-pair-share read and complete; jigsaw into foundations; key members; activities; controversies; FBI and its dissolution; current references.