Rev. Al Sharpton Discusses New Book, ‘Rise Up: Confronting A Country At The Crossroads’

The Rev. Al Sharpton joined “Closer Look” to discuss his new book, “Rise Up: Confronting A Country at the Crossroads.”

Michael Frost / Michael Frost

Amid a pandemic, a presidential election and the nationwide protests advocating for black lives, the Rev. Al Sharpton is asking for every American to rise up.

“This is not about whether or not Joe Biden turns you on or Donald Trumps turns you off, this is about the direction the country is going in. It’s not just about an election; it’s about a direction,” said the civil rights activist on Monday’s edition of Closer Look, speaking about his new book, “Rise Up: Confronting a Country at the Crossroads.”

Sharpton, who leads the National Action Network, talked with show host Rose Scott about the book that encourages readers to make the U.S. a more equal, fair and just society by taking action in their communities.

“Everybody should read ‘Rise Up,’ particularly those of us that don’t feel there’s any hope,” he said.

During Sharpton’s candid conversation with Scott, he spoke about several topics that are discussed in the book, including his friendship with Shirley Chisholm, discovering his life’s calling, fighting for civil and human rights issues through an intersectional movement, police violence, and giving the eulogy at George Fyold’s funeral.

Guest:

Rev. Al Sharpton, civil rights activist, talk show host and founder of the National Action Network

To listen to the full conversation, please click the audio player above.