Striving for Justice: A Black Sheriff in the Deep South

by Nat Glover

On a sweltering day in August 1960, in the segregated Deep South city of Jacksonville, Florida, a seventeen-year-old Black boy finished his dishwashing job at Morrison’s Cafeteria, walked out the back door, and found himself in the middle of a nightmare.

Hundreds of white men with ax handles and baseball bats were attacking Black sit-in protestors in Hemming Park. Suddenly surrounded, the young man endured menacing blows and racist taunts. He called for help from a white police officer standing nearby, but no help came. And he felt an unwarranted shame he determined never to feel again.

His name was Nat Glover.

Nat’s life could have ended that day, but instead, the ordeal reinforced his plans to become a police officer. His belief in a better world could have faded to cynicism, but instead, it took root in his spirit. His desire to overcome the poverty and racism of his youth could have given in to shame, but instead, Nat resolved to dedicate his life to honoring the dignity of all people.

Nat Glover went on to serve in law enforcement for thirty-seven years, became the first Black sheriff in Jacksonville, Florida, and the state of Florida in over a hundred years post-Reconstruction, and chose—again and again—to do the right thing at the right time for the sake of justice, compassion, and truth.

In Striving for Justice, Nat recounts his history-making years in police reformation, the values that fuel him as a leader and American citizen, and what he believes will move this country forward toward hope and healing just as he once rose again…against all odds.

Genres: Nonfiction

247 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 22, 2023

Reviews

[Robyn Sieron · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book about the challenges Nat Glover faced during his remarkable life growing up as a black man in the south. From being arrested as a teen for having a napkin in his pocket, to becoming Sheriff of that same police force, and so much in between. His story is one of courage, strength and positivity.

[Ebony Henry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am almost done with this memoir of Nat Glover. So far, this book has been an inspiration. This is a true testimony, of turning hardships into something REMARKABLE. I would recommend everyone, read this memoir because Nat has bestowed so much wisdom. Without struggle there is no progress. Light will always prevail over DARKNESS. If you believe, you can achieve.

Thank you sir Nat🙏🏾

[Kevin Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book opened my eyes about Jacksonville. A great I did not know or understand growing up in the “Bold New City of the South.” Thank you for all that you’ve done and endured frat.

[Dannie Lynn Fountain · Rating 4 out of 5]

A deeply moving read, very interesting. Could have used another edit to refine the content further. I received a complimentary audiobook from the publisher via libro.fm.

[Bianca Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rodney L. Hurst Sr.'s "It Was Never About a Hot Dog and a Coke" first opened my eyes to Jacksonville's hidden history. Naturally, I was drawn to Glover's memoir, which further unravels the city's complex narrative.
Glover's storytelling is nothing short of captivating. His personal journey resonates deeply, transcending geographical boundaries. Whether you're intimately familiar with Jacksonville or have never set foot in the city, this memoir has the power to touch you on a profound level.
What struck me most was how Glover's experiences ignited a fire within me. After finishing the book, I found myself more committed than ever to engaging with public safety initiatives in my own community. His story serves as a powerful reminder that the quest for equality and crime reduction in every neighborhood is an ongoing, vital pursuit.
This memoir does more than recount history; it inspires action. It challenges readers to consider their role in shaping a more equitable society, regardless of where they call home. Glover's narrative is a testament to the power of personal stories in driving social change.
For anyone interested in urban history, social justice, or simply a deeply moving personal account, this book is a must-read. It's not just about Jacksonville—it's about the universal struggle for equality and the impact one person can have on their community.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

An admirable man, an engrossing memoir. Charisma and credibility!