Stories of Race in Elmhurst

by Backyard Caucus Inc., Ted Gregory (Editor), Jim Parks (Editor)

In response to the racial reckoning that swept the country after the police killing of George Floyd in May of 2020, a handful of dedicated residents from Elmhurst, Illinois, decided to do something about systemic racism. In the spirit of “think globally, act locally,” this small group gathered to discuss the possibilities. Elmhurst is a white middle-class suburb of Chicago, in DuPage County, Illinois.

This book features a collection of personal essays written by Elmhurst residents on the topic of racism. Some residents tell of experiences that belie Elmhurst’s reputation as a welcoming community. Others write about the time they realized that their own “whiteness” brought them a lifetime of unearned privileges that persons of color were denied on a daily basis. Still others question societal norms that have hidden the issue of racism from so many for so long.

Introduction by Jan LeDonne Alexander, PhD.

114 pages, Paperback

Published July 28, 2021

Reviews

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought I knew all the progressives and anti-racists in my town of Elmhurst, but, turns out, there's a WHOLE BOOK of essays written by people in my town, and I only personally know one of the contributors. This is a slim book of essays and a really quick read. Highly recommended to Elmhurst and Elmhurst-adjacent friends.

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Informative book with some excellent stories. I’m inspired to publish a “sister” book, “Stories of Race in Lake Country” focusing on my mostly-white, very Republican community in Southeastern Wisconsin. We need to talk to each other, listen to each other, and work to make all of our spaces more welcoming to everyone.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fast and interesting read. Gave me lots of insights into what it has been/is like for POC in Elmhurst - bad and good. Also made me think about what I can do to make Elmhurst more inclusive- we have come far but have further to go.

[Brianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Re-read this one again to lead a book club with my colleagues. All in all, it's an undeniably real portrait of race relations in the town in which I teach. The lessons reach beyond that, but hit home when I see the authors are students I have taught and families I have worked with. Good read indeed.