Uncomfortable Conversations With a Black Man

What drew me to his Instagram video series drew me to this book - Emmanuel Acho is engaging and honest, willing to take on a burden of answering (presumably predominately white) people's questions about racism, terminology, bias, white privilege, and so much more. Reading this book felt like a small step in what will likely prove to be a long journey. Acho even ends the book, “Ending racism is not a finish line that we will cross. It's a road we'll travel.” I call it a small step not as a reference to Acho or his writing but rather in light of how much our society has to go. How much I still have to go in fighting racism and advocating for those whose voices have been stifled all too long.

This book is full of context, history, and recommendations for other resources to continue traveling down the road of ending racism. There may be moments while reading you may feel convicted and embarrassed - I know I definitely did - but it's worth it. It's worth it to be humbled and take the time to listen instead of getting defensive, trying to justify, or even walking away. This is a conversation we all need to be a part of, and I hope others continue to find this book to be a helpful resource on their journey!

As a note, I started the audiobook and then switched to the physical book. I recommend both! Acho reads it and does a great job. Reading the book was helpful in seeing how the book is divided up and noting recommended resources.