Ron Dellums
Ron Dellums
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Ronald Vernie Dellums, commonly known as Ron Dellums, was an American politician who served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from California's 13th congressional district.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on November 5, 1930, in Birmingham, Alabama, he passed away on July 30, 2018, at the age of 87.
Nationality and Profession(s)
A citizen of the United States, Dellums was a politician by profession. He served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1971 to 1995 and as the Mayor of Oakland, California from 2000 to 2007.
Early Life and Background
Dellums grew up in Birmingham during the Great Depression. His family moved frequently due to his father's work in various industries. He developed an interest in social justice at a young age and was influenced by his parents' activism. Dellums attended San Francisco State University, where he became involved in student activism and later earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology.
Major Accomplishments
During his time in Congress, Dellums advocated for various progressive causes, including:
Anti-war efforts: He was a vocal critic of the Vietnam War and played a key role in opposing it.
Civil rights: Dellums worked to address issues such as police brutality, voting rights, and affirmative action.
Environmental protection: He championed legislation aimed at protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development.Notable Works or Actions
Some of his notable works include:
Co-founder of the Congressional Black Caucus: In 1971, Dellums helped establish the caucus to address issues affecting African American communities.
Author of the Military Cooperation with Anti-Terrorist Activities (Militant) Act: This legislation aimed to limit U.S. military involvement in foreign conflicts and promote diplomatic solutions.Impact and Legacy
Ron Dellums' impact on politics is multifaceted:
Trailblazer for progressive causes: He paved the way for future generations of politicians who advocate for social justice, environmental protection, and human rights.
* Inspiration to marginalized communities: Dellums' commitment to addressing issues affecting African American and other marginalized communities has inspired countless individuals to become involved in politics.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Ron Dellums is widely quoted and remembered due to his unwavering dedication to social justice, environmental protection, and human rights. His legacy serves as a reminder of the power of activism and the importance of holding leaders accountable for their actions.
Quotes by Ron Dellums
Peace is more than simply the absence of war; it is the absence of conditions that give rise to war.
I have long maintained the military budget is not a jobs bill... and will continue to support the lowest budget possible.
The Constitution is designed to inconvenience one person from taking us to war. War is a very solemn and sobering and extraordinary act, and it should not be granted to one person.
The very foundation of our nation's economy is predicated on the health, growth, and vitality of our local communities.
We want Nelson Mandela and the people of South Africa to know that we will stand shoulder to shoulder, hip to hip, until apartheid is eradicated.
Companies using public lands should be required to perform thorough testing on all wells in order to fully ensure water safety.
Detroit's financial challenges - the decline of the American auto industry, the impact of the global economic recession, declining population, and an erosion of the municipal tax base - are key to understanding what led this great city to an inability to provide basic city services or to carry out the normal functions of a municipality.
I'lI say this: I recall entering Congress in 1971 and being called a 'feminist' by members of my own party as if it was a dirty word. They didn't realize that I wore that label as a badge of honor.