Cornel West

C

ornel West was born on June 2, 1953 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He is a renowned author, philosopher, civil rights activist and critic. Dr. West is an advocate for education, civil rights, and social equality, and has fought for the rights of those who are afraid to fight for themselves. He was in involved in several civil rights demonstrations in the late 60’s and 70’s. The bulk of his work focuses on race, gender, and class in American society. West graduated from Harvard with a BA (magna cum laude) and Princeton with an MA and PhD. West drew his inspiration from several sources, including, his mother, who was a teacher and principal at Irene B West Elementary School(named in her honor). The importance of education was instilled in him at a young age. As a kid, West was also deeply touched by the stories of fellow parishioners who, only two generations from slavery, told stories of Blacks maintaining their religious faith during the most trying of times. Dr. West was equally attracted to the commitment of the Black Panthers. From them he learned the importance of community-based political leadership. West is a professor of African American studies at Princeton University, but spends most of his time traveling the country speaking to a diverse audience, which includes, academic, political, and religious lectures. From schools, community centers, prisons churches, mosques, universities, and trade unions. Dr. West has been called “one of the world’s most influential intellectuals”. Race Matters, one of west’s many books, changed the course of America’s dialogue on race, justice, and democracy. Other note worthy works include; “Democracy Matters”, “Hope on A Tightrope”, and “Living and Loving Out loud” to name a few. Although he makes good money West says that his aim is to touch minds and settle souls and that he will continue to do so until the day he dies.