Chapters 5 and 6 Summary and Analysis

In chapter five, Assata is moved to a federal prison. A new trial for a New York robbery has been added to Assata's long list of possible convictions. She arrives on Rikers Island, where most of the female guards are black. A bunch of women were brought in; this was wonderful for Assata but also very overwhelming. She has been alone for so long, she has trouble talking. Next, an embarrassing and humiliating strip search takes place. Once Assata agrees to the search, she is allowed to go to her cell. When asked if she committed any of the crimes she is charged with, she says no.

While in prison, Assata sees an old friend named Simba. They had been close while they were both members of the Black Panthers Party. Later, Assata meets with Evelyn, who is trying...