Still Here: A South End Mixtape from an Unexpected Journalist

by E. J. Jackson, Reagan

When Reagan Jackson writes, be prepared for straight talk. She does not hold back when talking about race, black lives, gender, white privilege, police accountability, the kind of hot button issues that make people uncomfortable.
Like it or not, that's a good thing. Reagan lives and works in Seattle's south end, where people of color are struggling to live because of gentrification, rising property taxes along with dual pandemics of racism and now, Covid-19 that has revealed even more the racial disparities in America today. Our nation is being pushed like never before to see its original sin of inequality as the coronavirus devastates communities of color. As you read her stories, her Southend Mixtape, you will see a changing Seattle, a majority white city where people of color are still struggling to have a voice, and where a new kind of multi-media journalist and writer like Reagan Jackson are not just covering a community but living there to fully understand the changes underway. What you will find in Reagan's mixtape is powerful, and at times, humorous writing about everyday herself, life, human foibles, complicated issues, race, justice, injustice, and hope for a better Seattle and world. Keep on kicking ass, Reagan!
- Enrique Cerna, broadcast journalist

184 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 25, 2021

Reviews

[Sam Weiler · Rating 4 out of 5]

As is the norm for essay/article collections, I found some of the essays to be more impactful and well-written than others. But overall, a very strong and eye-opening collection! I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about the often glossed over history and current experiences of various Seattle communities.

The sections that stood out to me were “the Hood”, “The Struggle #blacklivesmatter”, and “the People”.

The first essay, “Who’s Afraid of Ranier Beach”, the last essay, “The Detoxing of Sugar Woman” and “Mary Mora-Villalpando in her own words” were my favorites.

Also, this cover artwork is stunning!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that it's unapologetic as it connects to the soul of the human experience. I love that she tore down the walls for truth. I enjoyed this book because some of the truths I have seen but am grateful for being informed of others. Reagan is an amazing human I am very honored to have gotten to know a very little bit about in person before reading this. This book needs to be read.

[Susan4ps · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book and felt so privileged for the insights to her experiences, many shaped by her navigating ths world as an African Amercan woman. It is rich and provocative, meriting of great discussions – yet a very easy read!

[JulieK · Rating 3 out of 5]

Liked some of the pieces more than others, but the collection feels random and doesn’t cohere as a whole (and so many typos). 2.5 stars