Directions: Read the AP news article on the passing of civil rights leader Vernon Jordan here . Then read the summary, watch the video from 2018 and answer the discussion questions. Follow along with the transcript here . You may also want to read Jordan's obituary in the New York Times here .
If time allows, read the transcript of this NewsHour interview with Vernon Jordan from 2001, about his book: "Vernon Can Read! A Memoir." Summary: Vernon Jordan, a lawyer and civil rights activist, died on Monday at the age of 85. Jordan worked with the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) and was president of the National Urban League. He also served as an adviser to President Bill Clinton. Jordan’s daughter, Vickee Jordan Adams, released the statement Tuesday to CBS News: “My father passed away last night around 10p surrounded by loved ones his wife and daughter by his side,” she said. In this NewsHour video recorded on April 4, 2018, Judy Woodruff interviewed Jordan along with syndicated columnist Connie Schultz, Vann Newkirk of The Atlantic and Brittany Packnett, co-founder of Campaign Zero, to discuss the lessons of the civil rights movement and messages passed down to today’s activists and citizens. Here is one exchange from the interview:- Do you know an E.D. Nixon in your life — as Vernon Jordan stated, someone in your community who is a leader but may not be as famous as other leaders?
- How does Jordan speak of the legacy of Dr. King? What does Jordan mean when he says "I think it can be summed up with two sentences – We have come a long, long way. And we still have a long, long way to go"? (in response to Woodruff's question: "How do you both celebrate the good that's come from all the work that's been done, but inspire people to keep going?")
- How have you been impacted by the social justice values of civil rights leaders like Jordan and Dr. King?
- Have you heard of the NAACP or the National Urban League ? What do you know about these organizations? If you're not sure, how could you find out?