Document Type

Book Review

Publication Date

Fall 9-23-2024

Abstract

Blair Kelley's Black Folk: The Roots of the Black Working Class offers a comprehensive examination of the experiences of working-class African Americans from the Reconstruction era to contemporary times. The book challenges prevailing stereotypes associated with the working class, particularly the imagery that often excludes black Americans, and emphasizes their central role in labor movements and the quest for dignity in work. Through extensive historical research and personal narratives, Kelley highlights the struggles faced by newly emancipated African Americans, who encountered devaluation of their labor and systemic discrimination in the workforce. The narrative intertwines individual stories with broader themes of solidarity, entrepreneurship, and activism within black communities, illustrating their resilience in the face of adversity. Kelley's work not only connects historical challenges to modern issues such as wage inequality and discrimination but also underscores the importance of collective action and social empowerment in advocating for equity and justice. This book serves as a vital resource for understanding the complexities of black labor history and the ongoing fight for social and economic justice.

Department

Levi Watkins Learning Center

Download

Share

COinS