West called Sharpton "the most significant, clear, lucid spokesperson of his generation."
The audience, which included many supporters of the BMF, was receptive to Sharpton's ideas. The audience debate that marked Sharpton's last appearance on campus was noticeably absent.
In his introduction, Counter reminded his audience that Harvard hosts speakers of many viewpoints, and that the evening's discussion should remain civil.
Sharpton, a controversial figure, said it does not matter to him if he is well liked.
"I'm not the kind of American public figure that's here to try and persuade you to like me," he said. "If you don't like me--if at the end of the evening you still don't like me--I promise I will sleep soundly tonight."
Sharpton talked about his early days of political activism, including his preparations for a 1981 White House visit with musician James Brown.
Brown, who Sharpton described as a father figure, wanted Sharpton to look related to him--so Brown took Sharpton to his hairdresser.
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