Charles McDew

Charles McDew
Born	June 23, 1938 Massillon, Ohio, United States
Died	April 3, 2018 Baltimore, Maryland, United States
Nationality	American
Occupation	Civil Rights Activist, Educator
Known for	Leadership in the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC)

Charles McDew (June 23, 1938 – April 3, 2018) was a prominent American civil rights activist and educator, best known for his leadership role in the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) during the 1960s. His work was instrumental in advancing the cause of racial equality and justice in the United States.

Early Life and Education

Charles McDew was born in Massillon, Ohio, a town with a significant African American population. He grew up in a family that valued education and social justice. McDew attended South Carolina State University, where he became involved in the civil rights movement. His experiences in the segregated South deeply influenced his commitment to fighting racial injustice.

Civil Rights Activism

McDew's activism began in earnest during his college years. He participated in sit-ins and protests against segregation and racial discrimination. In 1960, he attended a meeting in Raleigh, North Carolina, that led to the formation of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). McDew quickly emerged as a leader within the organization, known for his passionate speeches and strategic thinking.

Leadership in SNCC

In 1961, Charles McDew was elected as the second chairman of SNCC, succeeding Marion Barry. Under his leadership, SNCC became a major force in the civil rights movement, organizing voter registration drives, freedom rides, and other direct action campaigns. McDew emphasized the importance of grassroots organizing and empowering local communities to fight for their rights.

Later Career and Legacy

After his tenure with SNCC, McDew continued to be active in social justice causes. He pursued a career in education, teaching at various institutions, including Metropolitan State University in Minnesota. McDew's teachings focused on African American history and the civil rights movement, inspiring a new generation of activists.

Charles McDew's legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to equality and justice. He is remembered as a powerful voice in the struggle for civil rights and a mentor to many young activists.

Death

Charles McDew passed away on April 3, 2018, in Baltimore, Maryland. His contributions to the civil rights movement and his impact as an educator continue to be celebrated.

See Also

• Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee
• Civil Rights Movement
• Marion Barry

References

• "Charles McDew, Civil Rights Leader and Educator, Dies at 79." The New York Times, April 5, 2018.
• "SNCC: The Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee." SNCC Digital Gateway.

External Links

• [SNCC Digital Gateway](https://snccdigital.org/)