Muhammad Ali’s 82nd Birthday: Honoring the legend’s overlooked contributions to civil rights

Muhammad Ali, known for his fast feet and strong blows, his success in boxing often overshadowed his commitment to civil rights and public activism

Muhammad Ali, one of the most recognizable and well-known of all the sports figures and “the Greatest” heavyweight boxer of all time, would have been 82 years old this week had he lived.

Ali, a legendary boxer, is traditionally appraised for his fast feet and unmatched blows in the ring. His success in professional boxing often overshadows his commitment to the civil rights struggle and public activism. In addition to Ali’s foot dance and strong blows, his commitment to social justice and public activism makes him a prominent figure not only in sports but also in history.

Ali’s activism career started in the 1960s when he courageously denounced the Vietnam War. In 1967, at the climax of his boxing career, he declined the military draft on religious and moral grounds. Unfortunately, this move deprived him of his boxing titles, banned him from the sport, and resulted in a series of court cases that lasted for years. Nevertheless, Ali remained steadfast, utilizing the pedestal of his celebrity to condemn both racism and the injustice of war.

He pursued civil rights beyond the political field. Ali was an outspoken proponent of racial and religious harmony as he encouraged people of all groups to live together. His embrace of Islam only served to bolster his commitment to the struggle against structural racism. Despite receiving negative feedback and being backlashed, Ali’s unshakable faith in justice and equality served as a guiding principle in his life.

Not only did Ali’s comeback to boxing early in the 1970s signify a personal victory, but it also represented an endurance victory against tyrannical systems. While reclaiming his titles, Ali did not stop to illuminate societal concepts on his platform. His matches were no longer simply sporting spectacles; they became forums for his social discourse. However, it was the personality and oratory skills of Ali that made him a powerful advocate for the voiceless masses.

Apart from the public image, Ali was involved in charitable activities and humanitarian works. He dedicated himself to supporting education, healthcare, and impoverishment relief, noting the need to develop those left vulnerable in society. As a champion of justice, his legacy as an activist is greater than anything he achieved in the ring.

Source: Newsroom