T. J. Jemison

American clergyman and civil rights activist
Questions and Answers

FAQ

Q: Who is T. J. Jemison?
A: T. J. Jemison, also known as the "Dean of Black Preachers", was a prominent civil rights leader and minister in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He was the president of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. from 1982 to 1994.
Q: What were T. J. Jemison's contributions to the civil rights movement?
A: T. J. Jemison played a crucial role in the civil rights movement. He led the Baton Rouge bus boycott in 1953, which was one of the first successful boycotts of the segregated bus system in the United States. Jemison's efforts inspired other civil rights leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr., and helped pave the way for later boycotts in Montgomery and other cities.
Q: Was T. J. Jemison involved in any other civil rights activities?
A: Yes, T. J. Jemison was actively involved in several civil rights activities. He served as a member of the Executive Board of Directors of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), an organization founded by Martin Luther King Jr. He also played a key role in desegregating public transportation and other facilities in Baton Rouge.
Q: What are some of T. J. Jemison's awards and recognitions?
A: T. J. Jemison received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his life. He was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the NAACP Baton Rouge Chapter in 2008. In 2010, he was posthumously inducted into the Louisiana Political Museum Hall of Fame. Jemison also holds honorary degrees from various universities, including Southern University, the Virginia Seminary and College, and Morehouse College.
Q: When did T. J. Jemison pass away?
A: T. J. Jemison passed away on November 15, 2013, at the age of 95. His death was mourned by the civil rights community, and he was remembered as a beloved leader and a tireless advocate for justice and equality.