Chairman of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (1963-1966).
Graduated from the American Baptist Theological Seminary, in Nashville, Tennessee in 1961 with a bachelor's degree in theology. And, graduated from Fisk University, in Nashville, Tennessee in 1963 with a bachelor's degree in religion and philosophy.
Has been U.S. Representative from Georgia's 5th District since 3 January 1987.
Was a member of the Atlanta City Council from 1981 to 1986.