In 'Black Like Me,' John Howard Griffin undertakes a daring experiment, transforming his appearance to that of a Black man in the racially segregated South of the 1950s. His journey immerses him in the harsh realities of racism and discrimination, offering an eye-opening perspective on the prejudice faced by African Americans. Through vivid encounters and poignant reflections, Griffin sheds light on the systemic injustices that permeate society. This groundbreaking work not only challenges societal norms but also provokes profound introspection about identity and humanity. Prepare to be captivated by a story that transcends time and speaks to the heart of social justice.
By John Howard Griffin
Published: 2004
""I wanted to know the feeling of being a Negro in America and what I learned was that ignorance is a cage of unresponsiveness and unfeeling—a barrier to the humanity of those who are not like us.""
Presents the true story of journalist John Howard Griffin who, in the 1950s, had his skin medically darkened and traveled through the Deep South in order to experience firsthand the cruelty and injustice of segregation.
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“"I wanted to know the feeling of being a Negro in America and what I learned was that ignorance is a cage of unresponsiveness and unfeeling—a barrier to the humanity of those who are not like us."”
Black Like Me
By John Howard Griffin
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John Howard Griffin was an American author, best known for his seminal work 'Black Like Me' (1961), in which he documented his experience of racial discrimination by undergoing a skin treatment to temporarily darken his skin. This courageous act of empathy and social commentary has made the book a classic in American literature, widely taught and referenced in discussions about race and identity. Griffin’s writing style is notable for its engaging narrative and deep sensitivity to the complexities of the human experience. Throughout his career, he wrote several other works, including essays and novels, which often explored themes of social justice, civil rights, and personal identity.
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