Black Citizens and American Democracy: Fighting for the Soul of a Nation

How Black activism has helped achieve and maintain democracy for all Americans



In
2020, Black Americans continued a centuries-long pursuit of racial
equality and justice in the streets and at the polls. Arguing that this
year was not a deviation from the historic Civil Rights Movement, the
contributors to this collection examine the important work of Black men
and women during the previous decades to shape, expand, and preserve a
multiracial American democracy.



The authors of these
chapters show that Black Americans have long pushed local and national
leaders to ensure that all citizens reap the full benefits of the
Constitution. They discuss Black women's roles in advancing national
voting rights; how Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
developed "race leaders"; discriminatory news coverage and actions
against it; antipoverty efforts; and the racial and gender dynamics of
activist organizations.



These studies show how Black
activism from the mid-twentieth century to the present has led to
positive changes for all Americans, holding the nation to its democratic
ideals and promises. Black Citizens and American Democracy compels
recognition of many unsung people who have risked their lives and
livelihoods for the good of the country.

Contributors:
Reginald K. Ellis Cassandra Newby-Alexander Jacqueline Jones
Peter B. Levy Charles Chavis Jr. Charles H. Ford Wesley G. Phelps
Sharlene Sinegal-DeCuir Jeffrey L. Littlejohn Kristopher Bryan
Burrell