A prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement, he was a key organizer of the March on Washington and a close ally of Martin Luther King Jr.
Rev. Joseph Lowery is renowned for his unwavering commitment to the civil rights movement, serving as a pivotal leader alongside icons like Martin Luther King Jr. Throughout his illustrious career, Lowery played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of American history, fighting tirelessly for racial equality and social justice.
Born on October 6, 1921, in Huntsville, Alabama, Lowery grew up in a family that instilled in him the values of education and social responsibility. His mother, a teacher, and his father, a small business owner, encouraged his early interest in civil rights. A formative experience at the age of 11, when he was abused by a white police officer, further galvanized his determination to challenge systemic racism.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Lowery participated in numerous landmark events, including the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the March on Washington, and the Selma to Montgomery Marches. Alongside King, he co-founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), serving as its vice president, chairman of the board, and eventually, its third president from 1977 to 1997.
Throughout his career, Lowery demonstrated exceptional leadership, mobilizing communities and inspiring countless individuals to take action. He played a key role in organizing protests, boycotts, and voter registration drives, earning him the nickname "The Dean of the Civil Rights Movement."
In recognition of his tireless efforts, Lowery received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama in 2009. This prestigious award capped a long list of honors, including the NAACP's Springarn Medal, the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change's Peace Award, and the United Methodist Church's Denman Award.
Lowery married Evelyn Gibson in 1950, and together, they had three daughters. He also had two sons from an earlier marriage. His wife, Evelyn, was a civil rights activist in her own right, serving as a leader and role model.
Rev. Joseph Lowery's legacy extends far beyond his impressive list of achievements. He inspired generations of activists, policymakers, and ordinary citizens to continue the fight for racial equality and social justice. As a testament to his enduring influence, Lowery's work remains a beacon of hope, illuminating the path toward a more just and equitable society.
"The struggle for human rights is a continuous one, and it's not won overnight. You have to keep on fighting, keep on pushing, and keep on praying." - Rev. Joseph Lowery
97 Years Old
A prominent leader in the civil rights movement, advocating for racial equality and social justice through nonviolent means, leaving a lasting impact on American history.
Born in 1926
A prominent leader in the American Civil Rights Movement, he worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr. to advocate for racial equality and social justice through nonviolent means.
94 Years Old
A prominent civil rights leader and diplomat who served as a key advisor to Martin Luther King Jr. and later became the first African American to hold a top post in an American presidential administration.
Born in 1880
Led a powerful miners' union, fighting for workers' rights and fair wages, and was a key figure in shaping America's labor movement. Known for his charismatic leadership and militant tactics.
86 Years Old
A prominent civil rights leader and vocal advocate for social justice, known for his work as a founding member of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and his long tenure in the Georgia State Legislature.
85 Years Old
A prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement, advocating for Black Power and self-defense, and famously coining the term "Black Power" in 1966. Known for his radical approach to achieving racial equality.
Born in 1912
A pioneering civil rights activist who played a key role in organizing the 1963 March on Washington, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech.
Born in 1889
Leader of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, pioneering the Civil Rights Movement through nonviolent protests and advocacy for African American workers' rights.
