The Radical Democratic Tradition
Throughout history there have been individuals who have challenged conventional wisdom and have stretched societal limits. Collectively they constitute the radical democratic tradition. A sterling example of this lineage is Rosa Parks. Segregation was entrenched throughout the South. Montgomery, Alabama was one of its bastions. But on December 1st 1955, this 43-year old activist transformed history. She refused to sit in the back of the bus and was arrested. By her simple act of courage and defiance Rosa Parks triggered the Montgomery bus boycott, which in turn sparked the civil rights movement. Seemingly inconsequential actions can lead to momentous changes. It’s hard to predict when they’ll occur. Martin Luther King, Jr, who first came to prominence during the Montgomery bus boycott once said, “You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.”
Recorded at the Portland Convention Center.
Speaker
Cornel West
Cornel West is Professor of Philosophy at Union Theological Seminary in New York. He has been called “the preeminent African American intellectual of his generation.” With his preacher-like cadences and passionate delivery, he is much in demand as a speaker. A prolific author, his book Race Matters was a bestseller. He ran for president as an independent in 2024.
Chris –
Amazing this speech was given almost 25 years ago, it could have been spoken today and still be absolutely on point….sad to think not a thing has changed!
Michael –
Changed the course of my entire life. I love Dr. West and feel so grateful to have lived at the same time he has.