Walter Rauschenbusch—theologian, Baptist minister, key figure in the Social Gospel movement, and major influence on the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.—dedicated his ...read full story
Asthma is frightening. Like the bridge over jagged rocks and the Rottweiler looking to bite off my backside, asthma threatens my life by cutting off my breath. Gotta stop...read full story
Cornel West was a 14-year-old high student when Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968 . . .
It was 1968, the year my brother Cliff was invited to...read full story
“The blues is the elegant coping with catastrophe that yields a grace and dignity so that the spirit of resistance is never completely snuffed out.”– Co...read full story
There were certain dangers involved in sleeping in Central Park in 1979. Crime was still on the rise. But there were certain spots, between the thick grove of trees and l...read full story
I hear the cry of John Coltrane. I hear the heartbreaking moan of Billie Holiday and the anguished scream of James Brown. I feel the pain in Marvin Gaye’s soul when...read full story
My father brought me to Harvard for my first year of college. When we flew to Boston, it was my first plane trip. When we drove to Cambridge, it was my first look at the ...read full story
Some entertainers are blessed to be profound teachers. I think of the genius of Bob Dylan. Dylan came to mind not long ago when I was at the airport on my way to Germany ...read full story
In America, as in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, we are witnessing a magnificent democratic awakening with restless citizens all around the world demanding justice....read full story
Interestingly, it was my love for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that led me to Malcolm X. As a youngster, I wanted to know more about this guy Malcolm who was declared by t...read full story
