Percy Sutton Quotes

A collection of quotes by Percy Sutton.

Percy Sutton (1920-2009) was an influential African American attorney, politician, and civil rights activist. Born in San Antonio, Texas, Sutton later moved to New York City and grew up in Harlem. After serving in the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II, he attended college on the GI Bill and obtained his law degree from Brooklyn Law School.

Sutton's legal career began in the 1950s, and he gained recognition as a skilled lawyer, defending numerous clients including Malcolm X. In 1971, he became the Manhattan borough president, becoming one of the highest-ranking African American officials at the time. As borough president, Sutton played a significant role in developing affordable housing and promoting civil rights, particularly by advocating for equal employment opportunities for people of color.

Besides his political and legal achievements, Percy Sutton was actively involved in advancing African American causes. He co-founded the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Legal Defense Fund and served as counsel to a number of civil rights organizations. Sutton also established Inner City Broadcasting Corporation in 1971, which grew to become the largest black-owned broadcasting company in the United States.

Throughout his life, Percy Sutton tirelessly fought for equality and worked to uplift marginalized communities. His contributions to civil rights, politics, and media left a lasting impact, breaking down barriers for future generations of African Americans. Percy Sutton passed away in 2009, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as a trailblazer in American civil rights history.