Dick Gregory, a comedian and social activist, will speak at the Freeman Auditorium Monday, February 1, at 7:00 p.m. Gregory is an African-American comedian and civil rights activist whose social satire changed the way white Americans perceived African-American comedians.

From the 1960s to the 1990s, Gregory participated in marches and parades for a variety of social justice causes, including world hunger, drug abuse, and opposing the Vietnam War. He also ran for president in 1968 as a write-in candidate and received 1.5 million votes.

He was born 83 years ago in St. Louis, Missouri where he grew up and was ultimately drafted into the Army. He won talent shows in the Army for his sense of humor, so he moved to Chicago after being discharged to pursue it as a profession. His comedy career officially in 1961 when he performed at The Playboy Club in Chicago. Perhaps his most notable performance is an appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jack Paar” when he made great strides for African-American performers by insisting that he be permitted to stay and talk with host Jack Paar after his performance.

Gregory’s speech promises to be an interesting take on the topics that he has supported throughout his life. The event is sponsored by the Paul Robeson Cultural Center.