C.T. Vivian
Dr. Cordy Tindell “C.T.” Vivian (July 30, 1924 – July 17, 2020) was born in Missouri, and as a young boy he moved with his mother to Illinois. It was there, in 1947, that he participated in his first efforts for justice: organizing and demonstrating to successfully integrate a cafeteria in Peoria, Illinois.We had assumed that America held the answers. But more than that, we assumed that America would implement those answers once we presented our case clearly to the nation. And again we were wrong. For we found not only that the answers did not exist, but further, that there was not even any concern about them. No one sought those answers, and no one would put them into effect once they were given.” —C. T. Vivian
Vivian is best known for his work with Martin Luther King Jr. and was the National Director of Affiliates and Strategist for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference organization.
Vivian also developed and launched VISION, an education program that assisted over 700 Alabama students to attend college on scholarship.
In November 2013, President Barack Obama honored Dr. C. T. Vivian for his vision and leadership in the fight for justice by awarding him with the nation’s highest civilian honor—The Presidential Medal of Freedom.
In 1970, Vivian authored the first book written by a member of King’s staff entitled Black Power and the American Myth. Fortress Press is proud to offer a 50th anniversary reprint of this acclaimed book.
Are you the author profiled here? Email us your official website or Let us host your primary web presence.
