Book Review The Covenant with Black America
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Book Review: The Covenant with Black America
Summary
In today's society, many African Americans feel disenfranchised. How do we make the American ideals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness a reality for all?
Introduction
The Covenant with Black America, created by Tavis Smiley, is a call to action for addressing the disparities affecting African American communities. Over seven years of hosting the "State of the Black Union" symposium, Smiley recognized the need for concrete solutions beyond discussions with influential Black leaders. This book offers a structured plan through ten essays by experts across various fields, each addressing crucial issues and proposing actions for individuals and governments.
Key Themes
The essays focus on critical issues such as criminal justice reform, education, and environmental hazards in underserved neighborhoods. Each chapter outlines resources and strategies under headings like "What the Community Can Do" and "What Every Individual Can Do." The aim is to shift the conversation from acknowledging problems to implementing plans for positive change.
Criticisms
While the book is a bestseller tackling profound societal issues, it has not escaped criticism. Some argue that its solutions lean heavily on governmental intervention, suggesting a "fix it with finance" approach. Critics highlight that throwing money at problems without addressing systemic issues and personal responsibility may not lead to lasting change. They point to past governmental housing projects that have isolated African American communities, resulting in negative outcomes like higher dropout rates and violence.
The title "covenant" might be misleading, as it implies a mutual agreement with accountability from all parties. Yet, the book lacks a cohesive national plan and does not strongly emphasize self-responsibility or personal growth.
Suggestions for Improvement
The book would benefit from setting specific, measurable goals, such as increasing college enrollment among Black males or reducing environmental hazards in impoverished communities by a certain year. Without clear targets, the proposals may seem less impactful.
Conclusion
Despite its shortcomings, The Covenant with Black America is valuable for bringing critical issues to the forefront. Whether or not one agrees with the proposed solutions, the book encourages awareness and debate on how best to support disenfranchised communities. At 254 pages and priced at a modest $12.00, it's a worthwhile investment in understanding and participating in this vital conversation. All profits support Third World Press.
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