Photo from the July 1970 edition of The Call

“He called for the most vigorous possible activity in political life for the economic reforms that have always been identified with the socialist movement.”

Distinguished civil rights leader Bayard Rustin spoke at the Workers Circle’s 1970 convention. He advocated for economic solutions, such as increased job opportunities and fairer taxation, to the rampant inequality in society. 

At the time of the convention, Rustin served as the executive secretary of the A. Philip Randolph Institute, an organization for Black trade unionists. Rustin was a key organizer of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom and creator of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. He also worked to organize the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Learn more about Bayard Rustin.