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Muhammad Ali on Michael Parkinson’s chat show in 1971. He’s smiling, but is actually recollecting how he was turned away from a restaurant in the segregationist South, just after having won Olympic gold in Rome. Isn’t prejudice a vile thing? Image: video still

Thousands are expected to gather in Louisville Friday for the funeral of Muhammad Ali, one of the world’s most iconic figures of the 20th century. He was considered by many to be the greatest boxer of all time, but he will also be remembered for his activism against racism and war.

In 1966, Ali announced his refusal to fight in Vietnam. After his conscientious objector status request was denied in April 1967, he refused induction. Ali’s title was taken away from him, and he was sentenced to a five-year prison term. He appealed all the way to the Supreme Court, and in 1971 his conviction was finally reversed.

Today’s guests are Ishmael Reed, John Legend and Elizabeth Alexander.

We are honored to offer this broadcast as part of our affiliation with the Pacifica Network. Find out where the Democracy Now! crew is visiting next during the show’s 100-city tour, celebrating 20 years on the air.