Ralph Nader

For a self-described “public citizen,” Ralph Nader has achieved a phenomenal level of national prominence. Honored by Time magazine as “One of the 100 Most Influential Americans of the 20th Century,” he has spearheaded sweeping change in protecting the health, safety, and democracy of everyday citizens.

First and foremost an advocate, Nader began his extraordinary 30-year legacy with his battle against the auto industry in Unsafe at Any Speed, which resulted in life-saving motor vehicle safety legislation. Once firmly established at the forefront of the consumer movement, he continued to fight the good fight in government and in public opinion.

Nader helped create the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Due to Nader’s zeal, we now have safer drinking water, cleaner air, and freedom of information. His citizen groups such as the Public Interest Research Groups flourish on campus and the national stage, striving to protect the public and advance social justice.

Many of Nader’s most significant triumphs: consumer rights, open government, and more humane business practices are now fully integrated into our lives. Among his victories are the ideas we now take for granted: seat belts, air bags, crash-worthy cars, better labeling on food, lower levels of lead in the environment, smoking awareness, and healthier eating habits.

Nader organized the Green Party’s first presidential campaign and helped perpetuate a robust progressive political movement of a network of activists and leaders. With a simple, yet profound, credo Nader strongly articulates: “There can be no daily democracy without daily citizenship.”