Ronald V. Dellums

About the Author

Ronald V. Dellums was a trailblazing American politician, civil rights activist, and author whose life embodied the fight for justice and equality from the vibrant streets of Oakland to the corridors of national power. Serving as a U.S. Congressman for nearly three decades, he championed anti-apartheid efforts, nuclear disarmament, and progressive causes that reshaped American policy. As the first African American elected to Congress from Northern California, Dellums broke barriers and inspired generations with his unwavering commitment to peace and social change. In his memoir 'Lying Down with the Lions: A Public Life from the Streets of Oakland to the Halls of Power,' he offers an intimate reflection on his journey, blending personal anecdotes with profound insights into the intersections of grassroots activism and legislative reform, leaving a lasting legacy of principled leadership.