Most of us, who are active in Central-Brooklyn’s Afro and Caribbean-American communities, have been quite familiar with the political machinations of one Mr. A. Q. Abu. I can further say that most of us find him to be a man of integrity, who has always been committed to making his overall community a better one. This longtime activist is a former member of School Board 18, and has been a prolific challenger of assembly member Nick Perry over the years. He has also been a member of Community Board 17.
Abu’s last run for public office was in 2004, when he and three others (Asquith Reid, Omar Boucher and Weyman Carey) vied for the open seat of male district leader in the 58th Assembly District. Carey won that race, with Reid coming in second, and Abu third. In that race, the difference in votes from first to last places was about 300 in total; it was close indeed. Abu has lived in the East Flatbush area for most of his life now, and has been involved in many a struggle for empowerment, inclusion and the like; especially during times of changing demographics in the area.
In some pockets of the 58th AD, Abu A. Q. Abu is a celebrity of sorts. There is a story about Abu being delayed at JFK airport a few years ago -on his way to his birthplace Trinidad, West Indies- while a major snowstorm wreaked havoc, with flight delays to and from New York. Questioning the time on his own watch, he leaned over to a young man sitting near to him and said: “Hey young fellow, what time do you have?” And to his surprise, the young man replied: “It’s two o’clock Abu”. So much for being inconspicuous. LOL.
Like me, Abu has been one of those Brooklynites totally dissatisfied with what passes for political representation in most parts of the borough; especially in the areas where blacks predominate. He has supported many an aspiring insurgent against disappointing incumbents; and like me, he too has taken some political hits for doing this. He grins while taking these hits; and he is always good for a hearty laugh or two.
He has hosted a TV program on Brooklyn Cable Access Television (BCAT) for almost a decade now, and brings on many a controversial guest representing perspectives that are sometimes outside the political mainstream. His program is both edifying and entertaining. He is a very learned man -possessive of two master’s degrees amongst his many credentials- and considers himself an educator/political activist. He is also a retried court officer, who at times substitutes as a teacher with the NYC Department of Education.
Arriving in the mail a few weeks ago was a newly published book by Abu, entitled: “The Power of Introspection”. It was published earlier this year by Quawi Publishing, Brooklyn, New York (ISBN 978-0-9820617-0-1). It is a compilation of poetry, plays and prose. It is a journey through Abu’s varied life from the Caribbean, to the US military, his travels, and back to civilian life and activism -in a country foreign to his place of birth.
He writes heartily about his inner feelings, romance, parenthood, his religious reawakening, his lifelong idealism and more. It is a surprising journey. What is even more surprising is the fact that Abu’s political militancy is practically non-existent in his writings; so too his intrusive nationalism; but there are hints. Still, his calmness of spirit and august demeanor comes across in his writings as it does in real life. Abu gives us more than just a glance of his inner-workings; he removes many a veil and exposes parts of his soul.
The book is worthwhile reading. It helps us further understand this man and his convictions. For more information -or to obtain a copy of the book- do call the author at 1-917-507-7703. It is listed at $19.95 per copy.
Stay tuned-in folks.