Charles Steele Jr. facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Charles Steele Jr.
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Charles Steele Jr. in 2019
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| 6th and 8th President of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference | |
| In office 2012–2024 |
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| Preceded by | Howard W. Creecy Jr. |
| Succeeded by | DeMark Liggins |
| In office 2004–2009 |
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| Preceded by | Fred Shuttlesworth |
| Succeeded by | Howard W. Creecy Jr. |
| Member of the Alabama Senate from the 24th district |
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| In office November 8, 1994 – August 11, 2004 |
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| Preceded by | Walter Owens |
| Succeeded by | Bobby Singleton |
| Personal details | |
| Born | August 3, 1946 Tuscaloosa, Alabama |
Charles Steele Jr., born on August 3, 1946, is an American leader. He is known as a businessman, a politician, and a civil rights activist. He made history in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, by being the first African American elected to its City Council. He was also one of the first African Americans to join the Alabama State Senate. From 2004 to 2009, he led the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). This important organization was co-founded by Martin Luther King Jr.. Today, Mr. Steele runs his own company, Charles Steele and Associates, in Atlanta, Georgia.
Early Life and Education
Charles Steele Jr. was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He went to Druid City High School in Tuscaloosa. After high school, he attended Mississippi Valley State University and Oakland University.
He earned his bachelor's degree from American International University. This campus was located in Paramaribo, Suriname, South America. Later, he received a doctoral degree from Mt. Carmel Theological Seminary. He also holds honorary degrees from Stillman College and The F.T. Bozeman School of Ministry.
Making a Difference in Politics
In 1985, Charles Steele Jr. was elected to the Tuscaloosa City Council. He served two terms, which means he was on the council for eight years. During his time, he started several important programs.
He created the Unity Day Scholarship Fund to help students. He also organized the Tuscaloosa Police Athletic League for young people. Mr. Steele helped get money to buy land for Palmore Park and Barrs’ Quarters. Barrs’ Quarters became the first homeownership program in West Alabama. This helped many families buy their own homes.
He also worked hard to fight drug use in the community. He organized the Tuscaloosa Drug Task Force. This group later became Partners For a Drug Free Tuscaloosa County. Their efforts helped them receive a large grant of $1 million.
In 1994, he was elected to the Alabama State Senate. He was re-elected three times, serving for many years. In August 2004, he left the State Senate to become the president of the SCLC.
Mr. Steele has received special honors for his work. In April 2006, he was welcomed into the Martin Luther King Jr. Board of Preachers at Morehouse College. On April 20, 2006, he was also honored in his hometown. He was inducted into the Tuscaloosa Civic Hall of Fame.
