An icon of the civil rights movement in Atlanta has died.
Rev. Fred D. Taylor was known for his unique approach to leading protests using a megaphone. He used the same megaphone to sing spiritual hymns and freedom songs during protests.
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Michael, Atlanta City Councilman Julian Bond announced Taylor’s death Saturday morning.
“Rev. Taylor was a fearless crusader for justice and equality. Whose example is one of pure self-sacrifice for the upliftment of others! He always stood up for Wright and never failed to defend the least of these in our community. My personal journey with him was a blessing. From being inspired by his example, to being guided by his wisdom as a mentor, and ultimately to cherishing his friendship, I am forever grateful,” Bond wrote in a statement.
Taylor worked with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference for nearly 40 years.
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According to archivists at Emory University Libraries, Taylor first became involved in the civil rights movement at the age of 13, along with his mentor Ralph David Abernathy.
The Montgomery, Alabama, native graduated from the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta in 1969 and began his career at the SCLC.
He was also outspoken against the death penalty and was honored as one of the torchbearers at the 1996 Olympics, according to archivists.
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