Randall Robinson

Randall Robinson photo

Randall Robinson
Born	Randall Maurice Robinson (1941-07-06)July 6, 1941 Richmond, Virginia, U.S.
Died	March 24, 2023(2023-03-24) (aged 81) St. Kitts, Saint Kitts and Nevis
Nationality	American
Occupation	Lawyer, author, activist
Known for	Founding TransAfrica

Randall Maurice Robinson (July 6, 1941 – March 24, 2023) was an American lawyer, author, and activist, noted for his work in promoting social justice and human rights, particularly in relation to African American and African diaspora communities. He was the founder of TransAfrica, an influential organization dedicated to influencing U.S. foreign policy towards Africa and the Caribbean.

Early life and education

Robinson was born in Richmond, Virginia, and grew up in a segregated society. He attended Virginia Union University and later transferred to Norfolk State University, where he earned his bachelor's degree. He went on to earn a law degree from Harvard Law School.

Career

Founding of TransAfrica

In 1977, Robinson founded TransAfrica, an organization aimed at influencing U.S. foreign policy towards Africa and the Caribbean. Under his leadership, TransAfrica played a significant role in raising awareness about issues such as apartheid in South Africa and the Haitian refugee crisis.

Advocacy and activism

Robinson was a vocal critic of U.S. foreign policy, particularly in relation to Africa and the Caribbean. He was instrumental in the anti-apartheid movement, organizing protests and lobbying for sanctions against the South African government. His efforts contributed to the eventual dismantling of apartheid and the release of Nelson Mandela.

Writing

Robinson was also a prolific author, writing several books on topics related to social justice, race, and foreign policy. Some of his notable works include The Debt: What America Owes to Blacks, Quitting America: The Departure of a Black Man from His Native Land, and An Unbroken Agony: Haiti, from Revolution to the Kidnapping of a President.

Personal life

Robinson was married and had children. In his later years, he moved to St. Kitts in the Caribbean, where he continued to write and advocate for social justice until his death in 2023.

Legacy

Robinson's work had a lasting impact on U.S. foreign policy and the global fight for social justice. His efforts in founding TransAfrica and his advocacy for African and Caribbean issues have left a significant legacy in the fields of human rights and international relations.

See also

• TransAfrica
• Apartheid
• Nelson Mandela
• Haitian refugee crisis