I Write What I Like

"I Write What I Like" (full name "I Write What I Like: Selected Writings by Steve Biko") is a compilation of writings from anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko.

"I Write What I Like" contains a selection of Biko's writings from 1969, when he became the president of the South African Student Organization, to 1972, when he was prohibited from publishing. Originally published in 1978, the book was republished in April 2002.

"I Write What I Like" reflects Biko's conviction that black people in South Africa could not be liberated until they united to break their chains of servitude, a key tenet of the Black Consciousness Movement that he helped found.

The collection was edited by Aelred Stubbs. The book includes a preface by Archbishop Desmond Tutu; an introduction by Malusi and Thoko Mpumlwana, who were both involved with Biko in the Black Consciousness Movement; a memoir of Biko by Father Aelred Stubbs, his longtime pastor and friend; and a new foreword by Professor Lewis Gordon. [ [http://abahlali.org/node/3039 The introduction is online at the Abahlali baseMjondolo website] ]

Quote

"The most potent weapon in the hands of the oppressor is the mind of the oppressed." — Steve Biko

References