Deep Dive: Dope Is Death (2020)
Film Lens

In 'Dope Is Death', the focus is on Dr. Mutulu Shakur, who is the stepfather of Tupac Shakur. The film details his role in creating an acupuncture detoxification program in 1973, alongside the Black Panthers and the Young Lords. This program aimed to tackle the drug crisis in marginalized communities in America by integrating community health with radical political activism.
The documentary uses archival footage and personal testimonies to illustrate the innovative efforts of these activists. It discusses the suppression of the program, which was viewed as a threat to societal norms, and emphasizes the intersection of health, activism, and social justice in the context of the 1970s America.
Why Watch
- •Meet Dr. Mutulu Shakur and his radical health initiatives.
- •See the Black Panthers' role in community health.
- •Find out why the program was deemed too dangerous.
Did You Know
•Dr. Mutulu Shakur created an acupuncture detox program in 1973.
•The program was developed with the Black Panthers and Young Lords.
•The film has a runtime of 78 minutes.
•The production country of the film is Canada.
Perfect For
Activism in health care1970s American historyBlack Panther Party