theGrio’s 100: Rev. Al Sharpton, taking his activist fight to the airwaves

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Who is Rev. Al Sharpton?

With only 24 hours in a day, it’s challenging even to imagine how Rev. Al Sharpton is able to do all that he does. He is a day-time anchor of his own hour-long news show on MSNBC Politics Nation, the founder and president of the civil rights organization the National Action Network, a host for his own nationally-syndicated daily radio talk show, a published author and a highly-regarded civil rights leader and political activist.  But it is President Barack Obama’s description of him that seemingly fits best: “The voice of the voiceless and a champion for the downtrodden.”

Why is he on theGrio’s 100?

Rev. Sharpton has had a banner year. He rallied for justice in 100 cities over the death of 17-year-old  Trayvon Martin and became one of the leading voices on the matter, both in the media and on the ground. He also orchestrated meetings with executives at Barneys after the high-end retailer was accused of racial profiling.

In addition, he published The Rejected Stone: Al Sharpton and the Path to American Leadership. Sharpton has tirelessly fought against violence in crime-infested areas like Chicago and has lent his voice to address some of other crises afflicting the black community. Through it all, he has become a pillar in the black community as one of the most reliable advocates for civil rights.

What’s next for Sharpton?

As a recognized media professional and an avid activist, Rev. Sharpton has proven that he is committed to a cause that brings the issues of injustice to the forefront. For now, he continues to host his daily news show and tells the stories he believes are worthy of national attention. He is a public figure who has spent his time judiciously by committing his energy and effort to the causes that will help make America a better nation.