Robert L. Woodson (Finding Aid)

Robert L. Woodson

1937 -

Favorite Color: Blue

Favorite Food: Veal

Favorite Time of Year: Spring

Favorite Vacation Spot: Virginia

Interview Length: 150 minutes

Interview Date(s): September 22, 2003

Interview Location(s): Washington, D.C.

Abstract

Robert Woodson describes his hardscrabble life in South Philadelphia as one of five children and a single mother, after his father died when he was nine years old. Woodson details the daily life in his all-black neighborhood in South Philadelphia and the close-knit ties among the neighbors. Robert Woodson describes his childhood and educational experiences. One of his grammar school classmates was Wilt Chamberlain. Lack of support during his high school years and poor academic performance led Woodson to join the Air Force. While there, he had his first experiences living and working in an integrated community. Robert Woodson speaks at length on the failure of black leadership in the black community. He details the plethora of ways America's black elite and upper middle class could intervene to change the course for the urban poor, but Woodson also lays fault at the foot of poor blacks who blame white America for their lack of achievement and success. Robert Woodson continues his conversation on race, black on black relations, economic and social stratification, education, busing, Marcus Garvey and why he thinks the black poor are prevented from achievement by the black elite. Robert Woodson details his shift from working with civil rights organizations to Republican/conservative organizations because of his disgust with the malfeasance and failure to address the true problems in the black community. Robert Woodson discusses how he wants to be remebered as the "conscience" of black America. The remainder of this segment consists of twenty photos from throughout his life and career.

66 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)