Episode Summary: Al Sharpton - "Conviction"
Podcast: The Moth
Host/Author: The Moth
Episode: Al Sharpton: Conviction
Release Date: January 10, 2011
Introduction
In this compelling episode of The Moth, renowned civil rights leader Reverend Al Sharpton shares a deeply personal and transformative story titled "Conviction." Recorded live at the Moth mainstage at the New York Public Library, Sharpton delves into his journey from a young preacher to a stalwart advocate for social justice, culminating in a life-altering event that redefined his understanding of conviction and forgiveness.
Early Life and Preaching Beginnings
Al Sharpton begins by reminiscing about his early years in Brooklyn, where his mother introduced him to the Pentecostal Church of God in Christ. From the tender age of three, Sharpton was immersed in the church environment, leading him to pursue preaching with fervor.
“I would come home every Sunday and line up my sister's dolls and put on my mother's bathrobe and preached to my sister's dolls...the bishop had preached. Many years later now, I realized they were my best audience.”
— Al Sharpton [02:51]
By nine years old, Sharpton was already preaching at significant events, including the World's Fair near LaGuardia Airport. An encounter with a singer during this time planted the seed for his future path in social justice.
“The day will come, young man, that you will be able to really know what you believe, not just what you preach.”
— Al Sharpton [02:51]
Transition to Social Justice Activism
As Sharpton entered his teenage years amidst the tumultuous 1960s, the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. profoundly impacted him. Dissatisfied with merely leading a congregation, he felt a compelling call towards social justice.
“I wanted to do social justice. And because I was a minister, I was enamored with, at that point, Martin Luther King Jr. Who had just been killed.”
— Al Sharpton [02:51]
This period marked his commitment to activism, aligning with peers involved in the anti-war movement, the Black Panthers, and other activist groups.
The March and the Attack
Fast forward to January 1991, Sharpton finds himself in his mid-30s, leading a diverse group of approximately 500 protesters in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. The march was a response to the racially motivated murder of Yousef Hawkins. Tensions were high, with police barricading the marchers from potential agitators.
“We were demanding justice for Yusuf Hawkins. It brought a lot of national attention, and it brought a lot of response. It also brought some hate.”
— Al Sharpton [02:51]
As Sharpton stepped out of the car to join the marchers, an unforeseen tragedy struck. A man, filled with hate, attacked him with a knife.
“He punched me. And I looked down, and before I realized that, there was a knife sticking out of my chest.”
— Al Sharpton [04:10]
Hospitalization and Reflection
In the immediate aftermath of the stabbing, Sharpton was rushed to Coney Island Hospital. The brutal attack left him physically wounded and emotionally shaken, but it also ignited a profound sense of purpose.
“Now I know what conviction is. Now I know what it really means to answer call.”
— Al Sharpton [07:30]
During his recovery, Sharpton grappled with the concept of forgiveness, inspired by his earlier preaching and the teachings of Martin Luther King Jr.
Forgiveness and Reconciliation
A pivotal moment in Sharpton's story unfolds when he decides to forgive his attacker, Michael Riccardi. This decision wasn't just about mercy but was a testament to his dedication to justice and healing.
“I got up early that morning and went to the courthouse and asked the judge to pardon my attempted killer...I wanted leniency for him.”
— Al Sharpton [10:15]
Despite the judge's decision to sentence Riccardi to nine years in jail, Sharpton's act of forgiveness resonates deeply. Months later, Riccardi reaches out to Sharpton, expressing gratitude for the support he never received elsewhere.
“I came for me. I had to find whether I was convicted or just talented.”
— Al Sharpton [14:50]
Their subsequent interaction culminates in a poignant meeting where both men confront their shared humanity, leaving Sharpton with a renewed sense of self and purpose.
“You can't pass a test you never take. And sometimes those that bring you to the point of death will help you discover the point of life.”
— Al Sharpton [15:00]
Conclusion: Embracing Conviction
Sharpton concludes his narrative by emphasizing the essence of conviction—not just in activism but in personal integrity and justice. His journey underscores the importance of standing firm in one's beliefs while extending empathy and understanding to others, even in the face of adversity.
“Speaking for those that had no one to speak for, even if it's those that try to harm you, is the reason I was here.”
— Al Sharpton [15:00]
This powerful story encapsulates Sharpton's unwavering commitment to social justice and his ability to transform personal hardship into a beacon of hope and resilience.
Key Takeaways
- Early Influences: Sharpton's introduction to preaching and the church laid the foundation for his future in activism.
- Commitment to Justice: Dissatisfaction with traditional pastoral roles propelled Sharpton towards broader social justice initiatives.
- Personal Trial: The stabbing incident served as a crucible, testing and ultimately solidifying Sharpton's convictions.
- Power of Forgiveness: Sharpton's decision to forgive his attacker highlights the transformative power of mercy and understanding.
- Legacy of Advocacy: Through his experiences, Sharpton reinforces the importance of standing up for marginalized communities and seeking justice with compassion.
This episode offers a profound exploration of personal conviction, the complexities of justice, and the enduring impact of forgiveness. Al Sharpton's narrative not only recounts a pivotal moment in his life but also serves as an inspiring testament to the strength of the human spirit in the pursuit of righteousness.