The election is over, but based on the protests and editorials, it isn’t. The votes are counted, but based on the calls for recounts, and the accusations that Russia meddled in the outcome, they aren’t. The Democrats were rebuffed, but Secretary Clinton received more votes. The Republicans’ think their agenda is a winner, but polls…
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The Woman Behind the Mask I want to pay tribute to a woman and an organization that are doing something to improve the lives of black Americans. She does not have a big stage or microphone to work from. In fact, she literally started with one city block, a chair, and the daring to stare…
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The Bloom is Off The Ivy As I suspected, the harmony during the Cubs World Series victory parade that gave me hope was dissolved by the toxicity on both sides of the recent election. But I will not despair completely because I was witness to a massive, diverse crowd aligned in enthusiasm and support –…
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Allow me to set aside my focus on the racial conflict in America that seems so intractable – or at least let me look away from the dark to the light. I’ve been fortunate enough to spend one day where all divisions disappeared (except the one that keeps Chicago White Sox fans from rejoicing with…
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The Challenges of Being a Victim I’ve been diligently reviewing my daily Google Alerts regarding stories about racism in the media. I receive an average of about six per day. I’m noticing some recurring themes. One of those themes is the need for the “white establishment” to acknowledge that racism exists, before we can take…
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The Color of Character is Named Finalist in Chicago Writers Association 2016 Book of the Year Awards
I am proud to be named a finalist in the Chicago Writer’s Association 2016 Book of the Year Awards for the category of “non-traditional fiction,” for The Color of Character.
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The Triumph of the Know-It-Alls My very first blog was on my concern over censorship on our college campuses. I asked how could we ever come together over the big issues, such as race relations, if one side continues to self-righteously shut down the opposing view? I don’t believe it is possible, especially when so…
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As I’ve mentioned periodically, I receive daily Google Alerts on the subject of race relations. The vast number of articles that are forwarded as part of these alerts discuss the depth of systemic racism in America. They remind readers of the daily struggles faced by blacks in America of which most whites are unaware. There…
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Some of you might remember the Pulitzer Prize winning, Chicago columnist Mike Royko. He often wrote about his alter ego, Slats Grobnik, to represent the white, working class view of life. I’m going to introduce you to John Q. Whiteman. I don’t know if he is my alter ego or not, but I do think…
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If you have considered reading The Color of Character, but neither the book nor Kindle format suits you, there is now a third option: audio. The novel that has been called “a standout” in its genre in the 5-star review by the Underground Book Review, is now offered on Amazon in an audio version. The…
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