Known as the first prominent civil rights activist to lead a U.S. city, Barry was an active Democrat and gave the presidential nomination speech for Jesse Jackson at the 1984 Democratic National Convention. He held degrees from Fisk University and LeMoyne College, was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity and, in 1960, was elected the first chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), organizing civil rights demonstrations and rallies alongside leaders including Martin Luther King Jr.
An autobiography about his life was completed this year, co-written by Omar Tyree, called, Mayor for Life: The Incredible Story of Marion Barry, detailing his upbringing and education, his commitment to the Civil Rights movement, his rise through the political ranks and challenges with addiction.
Article Appeared @http://www.blackenterprise.com/news/former-washington-d-c-mayor-marion-barry-dead-78/