Al Sharpton is a prominent figure in American civil rights and social justice activism. As a Baptist minister, he has leveraged his platform to advocate for equality and justice. He founded the National Action Network, a civil rights organization. His influence extends to media, where he hosts a nationally syndicated radio talk show, "Keepin' It Real," and serves as a political analyst and weekend host for MSNBC's "PoliticsNation." In 2004, he ran for the Democratic nomination for the U.S. presidency.
October 3, 1954: Birth of Al Sharpton
Al Sharpton, born Alfred Charles Sharpton Jr., was born on October 3, 1954. This marks the beginning of his life and journey as a civil rights activist.
1963: Sharpton's Family Dynamics Shift
In 1963, Al Sharpton's life changed as his father left his mother. This event led to economic hardship for the family and a move to Brooklyn.
1969: Sharpton Joins Operation Breadbasket
In 1969, a young Al Sharpton was appointed by Jesse Jackson as the youth director for the New York City branch of Operation Breadbasket, an organization focused on improving job opportunities for African Americans. This marked a significant step in his activism journey.
1971: Sharpton Meets Future Wife Kathy Jordan
While touring with James Brown in 1971, Sharpton met Kathy Jordan, a backing singer who would later become his wife.
1971: Sharpton Founds National Youth Movement
In 1971, driven by his passion for social justice, Al Sharpton founded the National Youth Movement, aiming to provide resources and support for young people living in poverty.
1972: Sharpton Joins Shirley Chisholm's Campaign
Al Sharpton's foray into politics began in 1972 when he became the youth director for Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm's presidential campaign.
1973: Sharpton Begins Working with James Brown
From 1973, Al Sharpton took on the role of tour manager for the renowned musician James Brown.
1975: Sharpton Leaves Brooklyn College
After attending Brooklyn College for two years, Al Sharpton left without completing his degree in 1975.
1980: Sharpton Concludes Work with James Brown
After a seven-year stint, Al Sharpton concluded his role as James Brown's tour manager in 1980.
1980: Sharpton Marries Kathy Jordan
Sharpton married Kathy Jordan in 1980 after meeting her while touring with James Brown.
1983: Start as an FBI Informant
In 1983, Sharpton became an FBI informant, known as "CI-7," after his involvement in a drug sting operation involving Colombo crime family captain Michael Franzese. He reportedly recorded conversations with mobsters, leading to indictments of several underworld figures.
December 22, 1984: Sharpton Protests the Bernhard Goetz Shooting
Following the shooting of four African American men on a New York City subway by Bernhard Goetz, Al Sharpton led protests, criticizing the handling of the case. He believed the shootings to be racially motivated, a claim not supported by federal investigation.
December 20, 1986: Racially Charged Assault in Howard Beach
On December 20, 1986, a racially motivated attack in Howard Beach, Queens, resulted in the death of Michael Griffith, an African American man. This incident further fueled racial tensions in the city.
November 28, 1987: The Tawana Brawley Case
On November 28, 1987, a 15-year-old Black girl named Tawana Brawley was discovered in a disturbing state, her body smeared with feces and bearing racial slurs. Brawley alleged that she had been assaulted and raped by six white men, some of whom were police officers. This incident sparked national outrage and put a spotlight on racial tensions and police brutality.
1987: The Tawana Brawley Case
Al Sharpton became heavily involved in publicizing the Tawana Brawley case, an allegation of assault that was later found to be false. This event significantly impacted his public image.
1988: Sharpton and Roy Innis Confrontation on Live TV
During a 1988 appearance on "The Morton Downey Jr. Show", Sharpton and Roy Innis, the National Chairman of the Congress of Racial Equality, engaged in a heated on-air argument about the Tawana Brawley case, culminating in Innis shoving Sharpton to the floor.
1988: Admission of Informing for the Government
In 1988, Sharpton revealed that he had provided information to the government with the aim of curbing the influx of crack cocaine into Black communities. He asserted that his cooperation did not involve informing on civil rights leaders but focused solely on combating the drug trade.
1988: Sharpton's First Run for US Senate
Sharpton launched his first unsuccessful campaign for a United States Senate seat from New York in 1988.
August 23, 1989: The Death of Yusef Hawkins
The racial tensions in New York City escalated when on August 23, 1989, Yusef Hawkins, a 16-year-old African American, was fatally shot in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, by a white resident. This event sparked outrage and protests against racial violence.
May 1990: Protests Follow Acquittal in Hawkins Case
Following the acquittal of one of the key figures in the Yusef Hawkins case in May 1990, Al Sharpton spearheaded another protest in Bensonhurst. This demonstrated his continued commitment to seeking justice for Hawkins.
January 12, 1991: Sharpton Stabbed at Bensonhurst March
Prior to a planned march in Bensonhurt on January 12, 1991, protesting the lenient sentences given to those involved in the Yusef Hawkins case, Al Sharpton was stabbed. Despite surviving the attack, this event highlighted the dangers he faced as a civil rights leader.
January 1991: Sharpton Plans Another March in Bensonhurst
In response to perceived lenient sentences given to individuals involved in the Yusef Hawkins case in January 1991, Al Sharpton organized another march in Bensonhurst, showing his dedication to addressing racial injustice.
August 19, 1991: The Crown Heights Riot
Beginning on August 19, 1991, the Crown Heights riot erupted following the tragic death of Gavin Cato, a seven-year-old Guyanese boy, in a car accident. This incident, fueled by racial tensions and miscommunication, led to several days of unrest and violence between Black and Jewish communities.
1991: Sharpton Establishes National Action Network
In 1991, Al Sharpton founded the National Action Network (NAN), an organization dedicated to voter education, poverty alleviation, and support for small businesses within communities. This marked a significant step in his efforts to create practical solutions for social issues.
1992: Derogatory Language Towards Black Politicians
In 1992, Sharpton used offensive and derogatory language to criticize Black politicians he perceived as too moderate, labeling them "cocktail sip Negroes" and using a racial slur. This conduct further fueled accusations of divisive rhetoric and raised questions about his approach to political discourse.
1992: Sharpton Attacked, Michael Riccardi Convicted
In 1992, Michael Riccardi was found guilty of first-degree assault on Al Sharpton and sentenced to 5 to 15 years in prison after Sharpton had asked the judge for leniency.
1992: Sharpton's Second Senate Run and Residency Controversy
During his second unsuccessful bid for a US Senate seat in 1992, Sharpton faced scrutiny over his residency, claiming an apartment in Brooklyn as his residence while living in a home in Englewood, New Jersey, with his wife.
1993: Tax Evasion Guilty Plea
In 1993, Al Sharpton pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge for failing to file a state income tax return. Subsequent investigations by authorities revealed that Sharpton's for-profit company, Raw Talent, which he utilized to manage income from speaking engagements, had also neglected to pay taxes for several years. This financial misconduct further tarnished his reputation and raised questions about his financial dealings.
February 13, 1994: Controversial Remarks at Kean University
On February 13, 1994, during a speech at Kean University in New Jersey, Al Sharpton made remarks that were considered by many to be racially insensitive and offensive. He stated, "White folks was in the caves while we was building empires...We built pyramids before Donald Trump even knew what architecture was." He also used a derogatory term for gay people and made disparaging comments about the Mayflower, further fueling controversy and accusations of prejudice. Although he defended his language, the incident sparked significant backlash and raised concerns about Sharpton's views on race and sexuality.
1994: Sharpton's Third Bid for US Senate
Sharpton made his third attempt to win a United States Senate seat from New York in 1994, again facing defeat.
1994: Sharpton Becomes a Baptist Minister
Sharpton was re-baptized as a member of the Bethany Baptist Church in 1994 by Reverend William Augustus Jones and became a Baptist minister, transitioning from his earlier ordination as a Pentecostal minister.
December 8, 1995: Freddie's Fashion Mart Fire
Tragedy struck on December 8, 1995, when a protestor involved in the demonstrations surrounding Freddie's Fashion Mart set the store on fire, resulting in the death of seven employees. While Sharpton condemned the violence, the event raised questions about the impact of his rhetoric.
1995: Sharpton Protests Eviction of The Record Shack
Al Sharpton led protests in Harlem against the planned eviction of The Record Shack, a Black-owned record store, by a Jewish landlord. His use of inflammatory language during the protests, particularly the term "white interloper," sparked controversy and criticism.
1997: Sharpton's Campaign for New York City Mayor
Sharpton entered the race for Mayor of New York City in 1997, but his bid was unsuccessful.
December 1998: Tyisha Miller Shooting
In December 1998, Tyisha Miller, a 19-year-old African-American woman, was fatally shot by police officers in Riverside, California. This event later led to protests in May 1999, with Al Sharpton among the prominent figures involved.
May 1999: Tyisha Miller Shooting Protest
In May 1999, Al Sharpton, along with Jesse Jackson and other activists, protested the police shooting of Tyisha Miller, a 19-year-old African-American woman, which occured in December 1998 in Riverside, California. Sharpton was arrested for his role in these protests, which involved blocking traffic on SR 91.
1999: Amadou Diallo Killing
The 1999 killing of Amadou Diallo, an unarmed immigrant shot by NYPD officers, serves as a point of reference for the Sean Bell shooting in 2006. Both events ignited debates about police brutality and racial profiling.
1999: Sharpton Featured in Louis Theroux Documentary
Sharpton was part of a Louis Theroux documentary about black nationalism in 1999, as part of Theroux's "Weird Weekends" series, providing his perspective on the movement.
1999: Amadou Diallo Protest
In 1999, Al Sharpton led a protest following the death of Amadou Diallo, an immigrant from Guinea who was shot and killed by NYPD officers. Sharpton argued that Diallo's death was a result of police brutality and racial profiling.
January 8, 2001: Michael Riccardi Released from Prison
After serving 10 years in prison for assaulting Al Sharpton in 1992, Michael Riccardi was released on parole on January 8, 2001.
May 25, 2001: Protest Against U.S. Military Exercises in Puerto Rico
On May 25, 2001, Al Sharpton was jailed for protesting against U.S. military target practice exercises in Puerto Rico. This event led to his imprisonment at the Metropolitan Detention Center, Brooklyn.
August 17, 2001: Release from Prison
On August 17, 2001, Al Sharpton was released from prison after serving time for trespassing charges related to his protest against U.S. military exercises in Puerto Rico.
2002: Protests Following the Death of Ousmane Zongo
In 2002, Al Sharpton participated in protests following the death of Ousmane Zongo, an unarmed West African immigrant who was shot by an undercover police officer during a raid in Manhattan. Sharpton provided support to the family and offered some legal assistance.
2002: FBI Undercover Operation Footage
In 2002, HBO's "Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel" aired a 19-year-old FBI videotape that captured Sharpton during an undercover sting operation. The footage showed Sharpton engaging with an undercover FBI agent posing as a Latin American drug lord who offered him a 10% commission for facilitating drug deals. While Sharpton mostly listened during the conversation, allowing the agent to take the lead, the footage raised questions about his judgment and potential involvement in illegal activities. Despite the video, no drug deal materialized, and Sharpton faced no charges.
2002: Sharpton Expresses Regret for Racial Remark
In 2002, reflecting on the events at Freddie's Fashion Mart, Al Sharpton expressed remorse for using the racially charged term "white interloper." However, he maintained that he did not incite the violence that occurred, highlighting the complexity of the situation.
December 2003: Sharpton Settles Lawsuit with New York City
Sharpton reached a $200,000 settlement with New York City in December 2003, just before jury selection was to begin in his lawsuit against the city for failing to protect him from his attacker in 1992.
2004: Sharpton's Presidential Campaign
Sharpton ran for President of the United States in 2004, a campaign marked by both financial irregularities and a focus on social justice issues.
2004: Al Sharpton Runs for President
In 2004, Al Sharpton became a candidate for the Democratic nomination for the U.S. presidential election, a testament to his growing influence in politics.
2004: Support for LGBTQ+ Rights
During his 2004 presidential campaign, Al Sharpton voiced his strong support for equal rights for gays and lesbians, including same-sex marriage. He considered the question of whether he supports gay marriage to be insulting, comparing it to asking if he supports Black marriage or white marriage. He believed such a question implied that gays are not equal to other human beings. Beyond his public stance, Sharpton actively led a grassroots movement to combat homophobia within the Black church.
2004: Sharpton's Campaign Finance Violations
During his 2004 presidential campaign, Sharpton's team committed campaign finance violations that resulted in a fine from the Federal Election Commission in 2009.
2004: Sharpton and Kathy Jordan Separate
After being married for over two decades, Al Sharpton and Kathy Jordan separated in 2004.
January 1, 2005: Sharpton Campaign's Financial Disclosures
Federal Election Commission filings from January 1, 2005, showed that Sharpton's 2004 presidential campaign had outstanding debts of $479,050 and owed Sharpton himself $145,146.
June 2005: Sharpton Signs Talk Show Deal with Matrix Media
In June 2005, Sharpton inked a contract with Matrix Media to host and produce a live two-hour daily talk program, though the show never made it to air.
November 2005: Sharpton Partners with Radio One for Talk Show
Sharpton signed a deal with Radio One in November 2005 to host a national daily talk radio program, signifying his foray into the world of radio.
December 15, 2005: Sharpton Agrees to Repay Campaign Funds
Sharpton agreed to return $100,000 in public funds received for his 2004 presidential campaign on December 15, 2005, having exceeded federal spending limits.
2005: Sharpton Appears in Tony Awards Performance
During the 2005 Tony Awards, Sharpton made a memorable appearance in a musical number performed by the cast of the Broadway show "The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee".
2005: Sharpton's Media Appearances
In 2005, Sharpton made various media appearances, including a cameo in a Fernando Ferrer campaign ad for the New York City mayoral election and a guest appearance on the Food Network series "The Secret Life Of...".
January 30, 2006: "Keepin It Real with Al Sharpton" Premieres
Sharpton's daily national talk radio show, "Keepin It Real with Al Sharpton", debuted on Radio One on January 30, 2006, marking his entry into radio broadcasting.
November 25, 2006: Sean Bell Shooting
On November 25, 2006, Sean Bell was fatally shot by plainclothes NYPD detectives in Queens, New York, sparking public outcry and comparisons to the Amadou Diallo case. This event highlighted ongoing tensions regarding police conduct and use of force.
February 2007: Sharpton's Family History Reveals Slave Ancestry
Genealogist Megan Smolenyak uncovered in February 2007 that Sharpton's great-grandfather, Coleman Sharpton, had been enslaved by Julia Thurmond, a relative of Strom Thurmond.
May 7, 2007: Comments on Mitt Romney's Religion
During a debate with Christopher Hitchens on May 7, 2007, Al Sharpton made remarks about presidential candidate Mitt Romney's Mormon faith. These comments drew accusations of bigotry and intolerance, prompting widespread criticism and calls for Sharpton to address the offensive nature of his statements.
September 2007: Sharpton's View on a Black President
When asked about the significance of having a Black president in September 2007, Sharpton expressed that it would be a momentous occasion only if the Black candidate genuinely supported the interests and betterment of Black people. He stated that he was warming up to Obama but was not fully convinced yet.
2007: Sharpton Declines 2008 Presidential Race
Sharpton announced in 2007 his decision not to participate in the 2008 presidential election.
2007: Sharpton Debates Christopher Hitchens on Religion
Sharpton participated in a public debate with atheist writer Christopher Hitchens in 2007, defending his own religious beliefs and the existence of God.
2007: Sharpton's Reflection on the Brawley Case
In 2007, Sharpton revisited the Tawana Brawley case, acknowledging that he might have chosen a different approach when it came to personally attacking Steven Pagones, the prosecutor he accused of involvement in the alleged assault. However, he maintained his belief that there was sufficient evidence to warrant a trial, expressing his disagreement with the grand jury's decision. Sharpton drew a parallel to public opinion in the O.J. Simpson case, emphasizing his right to question a jury's verdict. He rejected the notion that questioning the grand jury's findings in the Brawley case made him racist.
March 11, 2008: Press Conference on Dunbar Village Rape Case
Al Sharpton held a press conference on March 11, 2008, to address the alleged unequal treatment of four black suspects accused of rape in the Dunbar Village Housing Projects in West Palm Beach, Florida. Sharpton's involvement highlighted concerns about racial disparities in the criminal justice system.
May 7, 2008: Protests Following Acquittal in Sean Bell Case
On May 7, 2008, Al Sharpton organized protests in response to the acquittal of the officers involved in the Sean Bell shooting. These demonstrations, aimed at blocking major river crossings in New York City, resulted in Sharpton's arrest along with approximately 200 others.
May 9, 2008: Sharpton's Tax Troubles Revealed
On May 9, 2008, an Associated Press report revealed that Sharpton and his businesses owed almost $1.5 million in unpaid taxes and penalties, including federal income tax and state taxes for both Sharpton and his company, Rev. Al Communications.
2008: 2008 Presidential Election
The 2008 US presidential election, in which Sharpton chose not to run, marked a significant moment in American politics.
2008: Trial of Detectives in Sean Bell Shooting
The trial of the detectives involved in the Sean Bell shooting took place in 2008, three years after the incident. Despite facing charges, the officers were acquitted, further fueling public anger and calls for police reform.
2009: Sharpton's Tax Issues Continue
In 2009, Al Sharpton faced ongoing tax problems, with the IRS assessing taxes that led to a lien being filed against him.
2009: FEC Fines Sharpton's 2004 Campaign
The Federal Election Commission imposed a fine of $285,000 on Al Sharpton's 2004 presidential campaign team for violations of campaign finance regulations.
August 28, 2010: Commemoration of the March on Washington
On August 28, 2010, Al Sharpton and other civil rights leaders spearheaded a march to commemorate the 47th anniversary of the March on Washington. Thousands of participants marched from Dunbar High School to the National Mall, symbolizing ongoing struggles for equality and justice.
September 29, 2010: IRS Issues Tax Lien Against Sharpton
On September 29, 2010, The Detroit News reported that the IRS filed a federal tax lien of over $538,000 against Sharpton for unpaid taxes related to 2009, although the due date for his 2009 tax return had been extended to October 15, 2010, according to his lawyer.
October 15, 2010: Sharpton's 2009 Tax Deadline
October 15, 2010, marked the extended due date for Al Sharpton's 2009 federal income tax return, for which the IRS had previously filed a tax lien.
June 2011: Rally for Tanya McDowell
In June 2011, Al Sharpton showed his support for Tanya McDowell, a woman arrested for using a false address to enroll her son in kindergarten in a different school district. This case ignited debate about socioeconomic disparities and access to education.
August 29, 2011: Sharpton Debuts as Host of "PoliticsNation"
Al Sharpton took on the role of host for MSNBC's "PoliticsNation" on August 29, 2011, initially airing weeknights.
2012: Protests and Rallies Following Trayvon Martin's Killing
Al Sharpton played a prominent role in the aftermath of Trayvon Martin's death in 2012, organizing protests and demanding justice. Sharpton's actions brought national attention to the case, sparking widespread conversations about racial profiling and the justice system.
2013: Sharpton's Impact and Recognition
A 2013 Zogby Analytics poll revealed that a quarter of African Americans considered Al Sharpton to be their spokesperson. Sharpton's supporters lauded his unwavering commitment to challenging the power structures they perceived as the source of their suffering. They admired his courage to speak truth to power and fight for their rights, even if it meant facing imprisonment. Political figures like former New York City Mayor Ed Koch and President Barack Obama recognized Sharpton's influence and dedication to advocating for marginalized communities.
April 2014: Sharpton's Past as an FBI Informant
In April 2014, The Smoking Gun unearthed documents revealing Al Sharpton's involvement as an FBI informant. This revelation stemmed from a drug sting operation in 1983 involving Colombo crime family captain Michael Franzese. The documents indicated that Sharpton, identified as "CI-7," played a role in recording incriminating conversations with mobsters from the Genovese and Gambino families, contributing to the indictments of several figures within the criminal underworld.
July 2014: Protests Following Eric Garner's Death
In July 2014, after the death of Eric Garner during an altercation with NYPD officer Daniel Pantaleo, Al Sharpton organized peaceful protests in Staten Island. Garner's death, which occurred after being placed in a chokehold, reignited national outrage over police brutality and racial injustice.
November 2014: Sharpton's Tax Debt Totals $4.5 Million
The New York Times reported in November 2014 that Sharpton and his businesses had amassed a total of $4.5 million in unpaid state and federal taxes.
2014: Sharpton as Advisor to President Obama
In 2014, Al Sharpton was recognized for his role as an advisor to President Barack Obama, particularly on racial issues, highlighting his influence in national politics.
2014: Advocacy for Criminal Justice Reform
In 2014, Al Sharpton initiated a push for criminal justice reform, highlighting the disproportionate representation of Black people in arrests and incarceration within the United States. He argued that this disparity revealed deep systemic issues within the justice system.
October 2015: "PoliticsNation" Moves to Sundays
In October 2015, Sharpton's MSNBC show, "PoliticsNation", transitioned from its weeknight slot to a one-hour program airing on Sunday mornings.
2016: Launch of Grace Church Websites
In 2016, Boise Kimber, an associate of Al Sharpton and a member of NAN's national board, alongside philanthropist Don Vaccaro, launched Grace Church Websites. This non-profit organization aimed to assist churches in establishing their online presence, demonstrating a commitment to community support.
August 2017: Call to Remove Jefferson Memorial
In August 2017, Sharpton called upon the federal government to cease maintenance of the Jefferson Memorial in Washington, D.C. He argued that using taxpayer funds to upkeep monuments honoring slave owners, particularly in light of Thomas Jefferson's history with Sally Hemings, was tantamount to subsidizing an insult to the families who endured slavery. He suggested that private museums would be a more appropriate venue for such memorials.
August 28, 2017: Ministers March for Justice
On August 28, 2017, the anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, Al Sharpton organized the Ministers March for Justice in Washington, D.C. This event, attended by thousands of religious leaders, aimed to criticize President Donald Trump's policies and rhetoric.
2019: Sharpton Reflects on Past Actions
In 2019, speaking to a Reform Jewish gathering, Al Sharpton acknowledged that his past rhetoric and actions may have unintentionally escalated tensions during racially sensitive events. He expressed regret for potentially contributing to harm rather than healing and recalled advice from Coretta Scott King about choosing to uplift the nation over seeking cheap applause.
June 4, 2020: Eulogy at George Floyd's Funeral
Al Sharpton delivered a powerful eulogy at George Floyd's funeral on June 4, 2020, calling for justice and criticizing President Trump's response to Floyd's death and the subsequent protests.
April 20, 2021: Prayer with Floyd Family After Chauvin Verdict
Following the conviction of Derek Chauvin for George Floyd's murder on April 20, 2021, Al Sharpton joined the Floyd family in prayer in Minneapolis. This event marked a significant moment in the fight for racial justice.
2021: Criticism Over Tobacco Industry Ties
In 2021, Sharpton faced criticism for leading a pushback against a proposed ban on menthol cigarette sales. Critics deemed his arguments, which opposed the ban, as "cynically manipulative," particularly since his organization, the National Action Network, received funding from tobacco companies. This sparked accusations of hypocrisy and raised concerns about conflicting interests.
December 2022: 15 Days of Light
In December 2022, Al Sharpton came together with other prominent figures like New York City Mayor Eric Adams and Rabbi Shmuley Boteach to host a unifying holiday ceremony called "15 Days of Light" at Carnegie Hall. This event celebrated both Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, aiming to combat rising racism and antisemitism in the United States. During the event, Sharpton stressed the importance of fighting for everyone's rights, stating that fighting for only one group becomes self-serving rather than a true fight for humanity.
February 2, 2023: Eulogy for Tyre Nichols
On February 2, 2023, Al Sharpton delivered a powerful eulogy at the funeral of Tyre Nichols, who died due to injuries inflicted by police officers. Alongside Vice President Kamala Harris, Sharpton urged lawmakers to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act and implement other crucial police reforms.