Interviewed by: Thomas Smith
Camera: Patrick Nelson
Door Assistance: Reggie Kelley
Log: Melissa Jones

Bio:Brother Hodari Ali was the owner of the Pyramid Bookstore that was a landmark at Georgia and Harvard from 1982 – 1998.  Recognized as the first independently owned African American bookstore, it carried many books tapes and other items that helped raise the Black consciousness in the community.  In this interview, Brother Ali describes the events in his life that led him to this endeavor, the famous authors that came to Pyramid, the installation of the famous Pharoah’s Head that marked the location, his struggle to keep the building open, and his other business successes during that time.  He calls for African Americans to regain their identity and sense of community, as he continues his efforts at Dar Es Salaam in Mt. Ranier.

Documents

• Interview log [Download PDF; 60 KB]
• Interview Audio [Download WMA: 51.33 MB]

Images Gallery

Brother Hodari & Mr. Smith	Store Memorabilia	Ms. Willemina Storm	Audience Q & A