A Brilliant Political Theorist

Dr. Ron Walters was one of the most brilliant political theorist of our generation. Twenty five years ago, he helped legitimized an African American candidacy in Jesse Jackson, a candidacy that represented a consolidation of power for African Americans in which to make a difference in American’s political landscape. When America didn’t honor the contribution of Jesse’s “rainbow coalition,” which was simply a broadening of Jackson’s base, based on demographic class and caste conditions outlined by Walters, Walters suggested that it was time for Blacks to lead a third party in this country. He was a visionary in that regard.

Ron Walters made a significant scholarly contribution to political literature throughout academic America and to the advancement of African American political empowerment. He will be missed.