Gary Younge is an author and editor whose work delves into the complexities of power, identity, and societal issues. He possesses a profound interest in the lives of marginalized communities, dedicated to bringing their stories to light. Through his distinctive blend of reporting and essays, Younge scrutinizes intricate social questions with a keen eye for detail and a strong moral compass. His writing compels readers to reflect on the world around them and their own place within it.
This collection offers a compelling exploration of race, racism, and the complexities of black life and death, showcasing the insights of a prominent political figure. Through impactful journalism, the author addresses critical social issues, providing a thought-provoking examination of the struggles and experiences within the black community. The work stands out for its depth and relevance, making it an essential read for those seeking to understand the nuances of these pressing topics.
A powerful collection of journalism on race, racism and black life and death from one of the nation's leading political voices. For the last three decades Gary Younge has had a ringside seat during the biggest events and with the most significant personalities to impact the black diaspora: accompanying Nelson Mandela on his first election campaign, joining revellers on the southside of Chicago during Obama's victory, entering New Orleans days after hurricane Katrina or interviewing Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Maya Angelou and Stormzy. He has witnessed how much change is possible and the power of systems to thwart those aspirations. Dispatches from the Diaspora is an unrivalled body of work from a unique perspective that takes you to the frontlines and compels you to engage and to 'imagine a world in which you might thrive, for which there is no evidence. And then fight for it.'
What does it mean to call yourself British in the 21st Century? If Obama was raised by his white mother, why is he the first black president? Why do Muslims feel more at home in America, which invaded Iraq, than in France, which opposed the invasion? Who are we, and why does it matter? This title addresses these questions.
SHORTLISTED FOR THE ORWELL PRIZE, THE JHALAK PRIZE, THE CWA GOLD DAGGER FOR NON-FICTION AND THE BREAD AND ROSES AWARD Saturday, 23rd November 2013.
Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his powerful "I Have a Dream" speech on August 28, 1963. Sixty years later, the speech endures as a defining moment in the civil rights movement and remains a beacon in the ongoing struggle for racial equality. This gripping book tells the story behind "The Speech" and sheds light on other key moments of the March on Washington, drawing on interviews with Clarence Jones, a close friend of and draft speechwriter for Martin Luther King Jr.; Joan Baez, who sang at the march; as well as Angela Davis and other leading civil rights luminaries. Now with a new introduction to mark the 60th anniversary of that historic day in Washington, The Speech offers an essential analysis of King's words at a moment of urgent reckoning and renewed calls for justice and liberation.
'We are more alike than we are unalike. But the way we are unalike matters. To be male in Saudi Arabia, Jewish in Israel or white in Europe confers certain powers and privileges that those with other identities do not have. In other words identity can represent a material fact in itself'. Gary Younge demonstrates, in his urgent and brilliantly illuminating new book, that how we define ourselves affects every part of our from violence on the streets to international terrorism; from changes in our laws to whom we elect; and, from our personal safety to military occupations. Moving between fascinating memoir and searing analysis, from beauty contests in Ireland to the personal views of Tiger Woods, from the author's own terrifying student days in Paris to the truth behind the Danish cartoons controversy, Gary Younge makes surprising and enlightening connections and a devastating critique of the way our society really works.
The protagonist skillfully navigates the complexities of a divided nation, using keen observation and artistic talent to illustrate its struggles with isolation and internal conflict. Through a blend of insight and style, the narrative explores the intricacies of a society grappling with its identity and the challenges of unity amidst division.
Gary Younge shows the enduring legacy and obsession with identity in politics and everyday life, that how we define ourselves informs every aspect of our social, political, and personal lives. From Tiger Woods's legacy to the scandal over Danish cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed, Young finds that identity is inescapable, but solidarity may not be as elusive as we fear
Younge explains why "The Speech" maintains its powerful social relevance by sharing the dramatic story surrounding it.