Demetrius Newton was born and educated in Fairfield, Alabama. He received his undergraduate education at Wilberforce University. Bro. Newton obtained his legal education at Boston University, where he became the first African-American member of Phi Delta Phi International Law Fraternity. His legal career has spanned well over 50 years and his experience varies from civil to criminal law. Bro. Newton was President ( #24) of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity from 1981-1984.
During his career as a legislator, Newton filed the first action lawsuit in the Country under the Title VII, Civil Rights Act of 1964. He also challenged segregated waiting areas for train passengers. He became the African-American in the Alabama House to chair the Judiciary Committee, and was the first African-American elected Speaker Pro Tempore. He has been awarded the Alabama Lawyers Association Award for Outstanding Lawyer and Pioneer; the American Cancer Society’s Outstanding Legislator Award; and Wilberforce Universities Honorary Doctor of Letters. He is also a member of the Distinguished Service Chapter (#92). He has a daughter, Deirdre, who practices law in New York, and a son, Demetrius, Jr., who works in the video arts in Birmingham. Brother Newton’s interest’s include: golf, photography, reading, teaching Sunday School, and riding horses on his farm.