From Dubuque to Selma and Beyond: My Journey to Understand Racism in America

by Dave Markward

Journey from the Heartland to the Heart of Racial A True Story of Insight and Transformation. 

Embark on a transformative journey with Dave Markward as he transitions from an upbringing in an almost exclusively white community to a life enriched by diversity in From Dubuque to Selma and My Journey to Understand Racism in America.

Intertwining Dave's personal growth with significant historical events and figures, this remarkable memoir delves into the heart of America's racial divides. Through thought-provoking questions at the start of each chapter, Dave challenges readers to assess their own understanding of racism and their progress to understand and value diversity. His heartfelt narration and candid reflections on his experiences make this journey relatable, inspiring, and deeply enlightening.

From Dubuque to Selma and Beyond is more than just a memoir - it's a call to action. It urges readers to step beyond their comfort zones, to educate themselves, and foster compassion. It emphasizes the crucial role of education in combating racism, promoting inclusivity, and shaping a more equitable world.

This book is a must-read for those yearning to understand the complex fabric of American racism and seeking inspiration to effect change. Whether you're an educator, student, or simply someone who values social justice, Dave's journey is a testament to the power of learning, reflection, and the human spirit. Let it guide you on your path to racial enlightenment and unity.

477 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 20, 2024

Reviews

[Josh Markward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dave Markward's "From Dubuque to Selma" is a remarkable journey through the intricate labyrinth of racial understanding in America. Markward, with his distinctive blend of knowledge, compassion, and wit, offers readers a poignant and enlightening narrative that resonates deeply.

What sets Markward's account apart is his unique perspective on race, coming from a white individual. His introspective exploration into the depths of racism in America is both refreshing and insightful. Through his experiences and reflections, he provides a lens through which readers can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding race relations.

One of the most striking aspects of Markward's narrative is his humility. Despite delving into such a sensitive and often contentious topic, he approaches it with a genuine sense of humility, acknowledging his own limitations and biases along the way. This humility allows readers to connect with him on a personal level and fosters a sense of empathy throughout the journey.

Markward's kindness radiates through the pages of the book, as he navigates difficult conversations and confronts uncomfortable truths with grace and compassion. His genuine concern for fostering understanding and promoting healing is evident, making "From Dubuque to Selma" not only informative but also deeply humanizing.

Moreover, Markward's intelligence shines through in his articulate analysis and thoughtful observations. He navigates through complex historical and societal dynamics with clarity and precision, guiding readers through the nuances of race relations in America with ease.

In conclusion, "From Dubuque to Selma" is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of racism in America. Dave Markward's blend of knowledge, compassion, and wit, coupled with his humility, kindness, and intelligence, make this book a truly enlightening and enriching experience.

[Julie Jensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an excellent guide for life long learning on a journey of understanding racism historically and in today’s world. I highly recommend this book for anyone that wants to learn more about racism. It is an honor to say that I have had the opportunity to speak with Dave Markward and can hear his voice intertwined in all the impactful stories. I am waiting for the sequel to keep the hope alive!

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is a very thoughtful and thought-provoking look at how white privilege and racism permeates American life. Not only did Dr. Markward do extensive research, but he uses many personal anecdotes from his life in Dubuque, his encounters in college and competitive sports, his teaching and coaching days in schools much more integrated than Dubuque’s, and his encounters in administration and in community relations as a superintendent of schools. Anyone who grew up in this kind of homogeneous environment, as I also did, knows that we have lots to learn on how “white privilege” permeates our American life. I’d recommend this book as a good resource for book clubs to explore the questions he poses in each chapter. Thanks, Dave, for such an organized and approachable way to start talking how we can each do a better job changing our interactions in day-to-day life.

[Heather Cowan · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is obvious this book is a result of, not only, extensive research and conversations by the author, but his own experiences and learnings. I loved the personalization of the honest conversations he had with his friends and not shying away from sharing the times he may have not said the right thing, not because he wanted to be unkind, but just because he personally did not know any better. He looks back at his own journey of doing and being better. We can (and must) all do better. A must read!!

[Daniel Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dave Markward, toward the end of his book, quotes Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Here is the quote:
“Racism in America is like dust in the air. It seems invisible—even if you’re choking on it—until you let the sun in. Then you see it’s everywhere.”
Yes, once you turn on the light of truth or open the curtains and let the sun in, you will see the true history of racism and white supremacy in the United States. Once you see it, you can’t unsee it. That is what Dave’s book does for those of us who are seeking and searching for the source of our original sin…race-based slavery, white supremacy, and racism.
Dave Markward has delivered in his book a testament to honest inquiry, research, and personal experience in searching for the origins of our racist system. Dave does the heavy lifting for so many of us. He has talked to people, looked up reports and first-hand accounts, delved into the archives of our past and has delivered a remarkable account of one man’s honest search for the truth. His book is a pillar of truth-storytelling.
Dave is a fellow Iowan, and he didn’t have to travel far to find evidence of racism even within the “nice” state of Iowa. Iowa was a state that fought for the Union during the Civil War, but still, has a sad history of exclusion and discrimination. Dave highlights his own observations of racism in his hometown of Dubuque, but anyone one in Iowa can relate to the stories of these affronts, insults, injuries, discriminations, intimidations and yes, physical harm to others because of one factor…the color of their skin. This has happened in every locality within the state.
Dave’s writing style allows you as a reader to feel like you are riding alongside him as he meets people, travels to various locations and confronts the stark truth that hides, many times, right under our noses. Dave includes descriptions of some of the major events and locations in Black American history that are by now well known along the “United States Civil Rights Trail.”
But Dave also provides first-hand encounters with names you have never heard before who provide the more local and current story of racism in the United States. Names like Lonnie Jones, Ray Dial, Jerry Jones, the Rev. Rod Dooley, JD Wilson, Tia Rice-Edwards, Slayton Thompson, and Willie Ray Fairley are names you may not recognize but to whom you will be introduced and learn about their remarkable character and achievements, despite the challenges of racist systems. Dave brings their stories to life and confronts you with the reality of the racism they have endured but have overcome.
I hope that every white person in the country will pick up and read Dave’s remarkable story and take the journey toward antiracism with him. I can assure you that you will begin to see the “dust in the air” as Dave’s book provides light and illumination to the environment we live in. And once you see it you will not be able to unsee it, but hopefully you will be motivated to take action to end racism in our time.

[Dianne Atkins · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is important for the information that it contains, but I did not enjoy reading it.
The Pros:
Strong evidence of systemic racism in the US that has it origins in slavery
Well researched and referenced, although I was disappointed in that many of the references were secondary and not the original source material
The chapter (the first) on profiling was the best.

The cons:
The book was in desperate need of editing. It clearly could have been shortened by 100 pages. 10 examples of profiling, discrimination, etc would be sufficient to make the point. The chapters went on and on with examples and it. Became wearisome.
The use of colloquial language was irritating, saying grave a bite of eat, crack the books, etc irritated me. There was much repetition of the same facts.
In the chapter on the role of teachers, the discussion of the author’s experience as a student was out of place in this book.
There were two glaring omissions. First is murder of Jack Trice, the first African American football player for Iowa State University. He died following injuries received in the second game of the season against the University of Minnesota. He was tramped by three players, could not walk off he field and was sent back to Ames with the team after being seen in a Minneapolis hospital. He died the next day of hemorrhaged lungs and internal bleeding.
The second omission is the disparities in medical care between Blacks and white. This is well documented in the lay press as well as she medical literature.

[Ethelbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our community discussion around this book became unexpectedly emotional. What started as a simple reading session slowly turned into one of the most honest conversations our group has had in a long time. People were not just talking about the book itself. They were connecting it to their own experiences, memories, and personal reflections.

One thing that stood out to many of us was the tone of the writing. Dave Markward approaches difficult topics with sincerity and compassion rather than frustration or judgment. That made readers feel comfortable enough to engage openly, even when the conversations became deeply personal.

Several members of our group shared stories they had never spoken about before. Some reflected on the communities they grew up in, while others talked about moments when their own understanding of race and identity changed over time. The book created an atmosphere where people felt safe listening to each other without becoming defensive.

I also appreciated how balanced the memoir felt. It acknowledges painful realities and uncomfortable truths, but it never loses its sense of hope. There is a strong message throughout the book that growth is possible when people are willing to listen, learn, and step outside what feels familiar.

By the end of our discussion, many readers said this felt like more than just a memoir. It felt like an invitation to reflect honestly and connect more deeply with others. That kind of impact is rare, and it speaks volumes about the care and humanity behind this book.

[Trevor · Rating 5 out of 5]

What stood out to me most in this memoir was the balance between personal storytelling and historical reflection. Dave Markward does not simply recount historical events from a distance. He connects them to his own journey in a way that feels personal, thoughtful, and sincere. That approach made the book feel emotionally grounded rather than purely informational.

The sections connected to Selma were especially powerful for me. There was a depth and emotional honesty in those chapters that stayed with me long after I finished reading. You could feel that these experiences genuinely changed the author’s understanding of race, justice, and human connection. Nothing about those moments felt forced or exaggerated.

One thing our reading community discussed at length was how effectively the book shows that growth often comes from listening and stepping outside familiar environments. Several readers mentioned that the memoir encouraged them to reflect on their own upbringing and the perspectives they may have taken for granted. The conversations became much deeper than anyone expected.

By the end of the book, I felt I had gained not only a stronger appreciation for the history surrounding the Civil Rights Movement, but also a better understanding of how that history still shapes everyday life today. This memoir is honest, compassionate, and deeply relevant. It is the kind of book that continues to spark reflection even after the final page.

[Fahd Abdullah · Rating 5 out of 5]

One thing I deeply appreciated about this book was the reflective questions at the beginning of each chapter. They completely changed the pace of my reading experience and encouraged me to slow down instead of simply moving from one chapter to the next. Before reading the author’s story, I found myself thinking about my own experiences, assumptions, and the environment I grew up in.

As I continued reading, those questions stayed with me. They made the memoir feel much more personal and interactive than I expected. Rather than feeling like I was observing someone else’s journey from a distance, I felt invited into an honest and thoughtful conversation about race, understanding, and personal growth. Some chapters even led me to revisit conversations I have had with family and friends in my own life.

Very few books have caused me to pause and reflect as often as this one did. Dave Markward writes with sincerity and humility, which made the experience feel genuine from beginning to end. This was not just a memoir to read quickly and set aside. It was the kind of book that encourages deeper thinking long after you finish the final page.

[Gage Arlen · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a teacher, I found this book incredibly valuable from both an educational and personal perspective. Dave Markward approaches difficult conversations about race, privilege, and understanding with honesty and compassion, which made the book feel approachable rather than overwhelming. I appreciated that the writing never felt academic or disconnected from real life experiences.

One thing that stood out to me was how naturally the memoir encourages reflection. Instead of telling readers what to think, the author shares experiences and observations in a way that opens the door for meaningful discussion. During our community reading conversation, several people mentioned that the book made them reconsider certain assumptions they had carried for years. That kind of thoughtful engagement is rare.

I could easily see this book becoming part of classroom discussions, community programs, or group reading circles because it creates space for dialogue without making readers feel judged or defensive. The tone is sincere, respectful, and deeply human. More than anything, the book invites people to listen, learn, and grow together, and I think that is what makes it so impactful.

[Joel Furda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautifully written book chronicles a very personal experience with racism in this country and specifically in the midwest. Using personal experiences growing up in an essentially white monoculture in Dubuque, Iowa, Dave pursues his subject describing his encounters in high school and as a college athlete,teacher,coach, school principal,school administrator,and finishing his career as a Superintendent of Schools. His intensive attention to research, direct face to face interviews, many phone interviews and personal experiences makes his writing noteworthy, believable and personally compelling. For anyone interested in the historical and continuing story of racism in our country,this is a must read. Thank you Dave and kudos to you. We're proud to call you our friend.
Joel and Kathy Furda

[Seymour · Rating 5 out of 5]

I grew up in a small town myself, so the opening chapters connected with me immediately. Dave captured the feeling of growing up in a place where certain conversations simply never happened. There was something very sincere about the way he described gradually becoming aware of realities outside his own experience. It reminded me that growth often happens slowly, one relationship and one conversation at a time.

What stayed with me most was the honesty in his reflections. He never tried to present himself as someone who had all the answers from the beginning. Instead, the book showed how listening, learning, and meaningful connections can slowly change the way a person sees the world. Our reading group had a thoughtful discussion about how many people can probably relate to that journey in their own way.

[Sheila Lehman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I could not put this book down! Beautifully written and life-altering! In his book, From Dubuque to Selma and Beyond, Dave Markward provides a thought-provoking look into his journey to understand racism in America. His use of personal stories to introduce each chapter allows the reader to get to know him as a kind, loving person who is deeply committed to his own personal growth and to making the world a better place. The heart breaking descriptions of historical events make this an incredible read and one you will never forget. This author clearly shows we must know our history if we want to understand the origins of racism. The book has opened my mind and heart. It has deepened my perspective on racism in our country. I highly recommend this book! You will not be disappointed!

[Cynthia A · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an interesting, informative, thought provoking look into racism and learning about racism. Dave ‘s writing made me feel like I was having a conversation with a friend, a friend who honestly shared what he has learned through his life, interviews and research into racism. Dave’s humor, intelligence, compassion, humbleness and willingness to not only share all he has learned, but also to admit how much he still has to learn makes for a very educational yet fun read. He knows and has interviewed a wide variety of wonderful people who were willing to share their lives with him in order to help us all learn. I rarely re-read a book, but I feel this needs another read through which I look forward to!

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was well researched and eye opening. I generally think of myself as a relatively well informed person but it is apparent that I didn't investigate beyond the head lines and the
general sense that some of the legislation and court rulings had been helpful.

The book starts in the tradition of Studs Terkel, who wrote about variety of topics based on the personal experiences of scores of people he interviewed. The first chapter is about racial profiling. Most of us are aware it is a regular occurence, but do not fully understand how damaging and painful it is. The remainder of the book presents several topics which were thoroughly researched. As I said, this is an eye opening book. It is also an important book worth reading.

[Jana Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

From Dubuque to Selma and Beyond by Markward is an emotional journey from sadness, embarrassment, anger, and hope. At times I had to take a break from reading it as it weighed heavy on my heart.

Dave's approach in reporting his experiences and findings is genuine and heartfelt. He presses the reader to reflect on these stories, to be empathetic, and to feel uncomfortable by society's narrow-minded behavior.

I loved the quote by Abdull-Jabar, noted in the last chapter, about meeting and making friends with people who look different from you. This quote summed up the underlying hope that we are capable of being better humans.

[Ruthie Caitham · Rating 5 out of 5]

"All learning starts with a question." Each chapter begins and ends with a question. Each question is thought provoking to learn and grow as a person. It is important to understand in order for change to happen. The amount of research in this book is remarkable. I commend him for tackling this subject matter. He skillfully blends his personal journey with interviews and his extensive research. The stories he shares in his book evoke a full range of emotions. When an author can do that, the book is a success. Thank you Dave Markward for starting this conversation with your readers.

[Brabbyb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this book at a local book festival and found it highly educational. I learned a lot about things I never learned in my history classes. The author really walked a line between a list of disheartening and infuriating facts and the optimism and possibility of the future. I appreciate that this is from the perspective of a professional educator because it really focuses on how to rethink our history. Rather than taking the easier route of pointing out injustices and problems, the author helps to highlight solutions.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easy to digest and I especially loved the anecdotes and perspectives from real people in your life, both those whom you've had a previous relationship with and those you were engaging with for the first time.

Specifically, the story about the young student adding black and brown to the rainbow, but being rebuked for it connected with me.

Thank you for putting these stories and perspectives out into the world.

[John Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written overview of a personal journey to understand racism in America from the perspective of a white male who has gained personal experience and studied the issue carefully. Markward supports his work with extensive research. For those of us who think that racism and the effects of racism ended after Jim Crowe, it is and eye opener. It may be uncomfortable to face the facts that this book highlights, but it is a worthwhile effort to read for all Americans.

[Daryl E · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed every minute of this book. It should be required reading for many, especially those who think our country is long past racism and discrimination. It opened my eyes, as a fellow white midwesterner, to everything that our African American brothers and sisters have had to endure, long past the Civil War and even to this day. Well written and researched, and certainly changed my perspective on things big and small. We indeed have a long way to go in this country.

Daryl E.

[Abdullah Yasmin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book surprised me in the best way. I expected a history centered memoir, but what stayed with me most was the honesty. Dave Markward writes openly about moments of discomfort, confusion, and growth without trying to make himself look perfect. That made the journey feel real.

Our reading group spent almost an hour discussing how difficult it can be for people to question the environment they were raised in. The conversations this book created were just as meaningful as the book itself.

[Cory · Rating 5 out of 5]

This page turner is a compelling and personal work that helped me understand more about the sinister character of racism in America. The author sheds light on the often covered up racial history of our country and provides insight into the ongoing challenges people of color face today. A must read for those who care about a better tomorrow.

[Debra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an honest and penetrating book detailing the author's quest to dig deep into the realities of racism while being raised in an environment of white privilege. The stories are compelling, the interviews penetrating, and the commitment to bridging gaps inspiring. Most importantly, it invites the reader to embark on a similar quest.

[Randy Markward · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a real eyeopener. Dave examines the forces that shaped his own experiences in dealing with this difficult subject and gives us pause to do the same. Informative but never preachy, I recommend this book to anyone interested in reflecting on their personal road to understanding the great divide in American society.

[Bill Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, written by a white man, helped me see racism more intimately through black eyes. The research the author has done plus the anecdotes from his own life and those of the many black professionals he has worked with, helped me to know more of what it is like to live behind black skin - all day, every day in all situations - in America.

I recommend it highly.

[Ted · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely excellent book and one that should be required reading to better understand the civil rights efforts in the US and the work remaining to be accomplished. Challenges one to determine their own experiences or lack thereof and encouraging one to become involved in correcting the situation. It was a real awakening provided by an author I greatly respect. Thank you Dave.

[Sue Seitz · Rating 5 out of 5]

An exceptional read. This book provokes rage at the injustices faced by our black neighbors and shame that we have not done more to correct these injustices. Kudos to Dr. Markward for authoring a book to educate, inspire and encourage us. I highly recommend!

[Lindsay Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This well-written, strongly researched book will lead you through a journey which leaves you reflecting on your own path. The interviews and personal accounts really left a mark on my soul, encouraging me to do and be better. Enjoy!

[Dan Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every chapter begins and ends with a question, which leads you to engage in real thought. When I completed reading, my mind was full of questions about what I believe, and what the country believes.
That is the mark of a book worth reading!