Al Sharpton

Alfred Charles "Al" Sharpton Jr. is a Baptist minister, civil rights activist, and media personality.

He hosts radio and TV shows, and ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2004.

Supporters praise his willingness to challenge power structures and speak out on issues.

Critics label him a political radical and blame him for deteriorating race relations.

Some have called him anti-Semitic and a racial arsonist.

Sharpton views criticism as a sign of his effectiveness as an activist, believing his role is to bring public attention to civil rights issues and create a climate for change.