The Divine Ruby Dee (2:31)

THE DIVINE RUBY DEE[col. writ.  6/12/14] © ’14 Mumia Abu-Jamal Her name was Ruby Dee (‘D’) - for Davis), and though she made her transition into the realm of the ancestors, she is available for all to see in all her beauty, dignity, charm and poise, for a long and distinguished career on stage, screen and television. Despite such a long and legendary career as an actress, one would be hard-pressed to find a role where she portrayed anything less than the best of Black people. Her best self shone, no matter the role, no matter the script. Like her late husband, the Master actor, Ossie Davis, their work was a theater of Black dignity, Black family and Black Love. My wife, Wadiya Jamal, loved them both. When I asked her why, she said, “I love how they love.” They found ways to practice their chosen craft, but never sold their souls to the cameraman or the director. Ruby Dee was also a lifelong activist, who supported Malcolm X, the Black Freedom Movement and - yes- yours truly. She was a