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Uprooting Racism: How White People Can Work for Racial Justice
Continuously at the top of New Society Publishers’ best-seller list for five years, Uprooting Racism has sold over 25,000 copies since its first printing. Substantially revised and expanded, the new edition has more tools to help white people understand and stand-up to racism.
Uprooting Racism explores the manifestations of racism in politics, work, community, and family life. It moves beyond the definition and unlearning of racism to address the many areas of privilege for white people and suggests ways for individuals and groups to challenge the structures of racism. Uprooting Racism’s welcoming style helps readers look at how we learn racism, what effects it has on our lives, its costs and benefits to white people, and what we can do about it.
In addition to updating existing chapters, the new edition of Uprooting Racism explores how entrenched racism has been revealed in the new economy, the 2000 electoral debacle, rising anti-Arab prejudice, and health care policy. Special features include exercises, questions, and suggestions to engage, challenge assumptions, and motivate the reader towards social action. The new edition includes an index and an updated bibliography.
Marketing Plans:
• Print review campaign to progressive and social action magazines
• Web publicity campaign to progressive and activist sites
• Course adoption campaign
• Advertising in Education magazines
• Promotional mailing to libraries
Paul Kivel is the author of Boys Will Be Men (ISBN: 0-86571-395-2, New Society Publishers, 1999) and Men's Work (ISBN: 0-34537-939-X, Ballantine, 1998). He is the founder of the nationally recognized Oakland's Men's Project and has conducted hundreds of workshops on racism and anti-violence for teens and men all over the country. He lives in Oakland, California.
Also Available by Paul Kivel
Boys Will Be Men: Raising Our Sons for Courage, Caring, and Community
TP $16.95, 0-86571-395-2 • USA
Uprooting Racism explores the manifestations of racism in politics, work, community, and family life. It moves beyond the definition and unlearning of racism to address the many areas of privilege for white people and suggests ways for individuals and groups to challenge the structures of racism. Uprooting Racism’s welcoming style helps readers look at how we learn racism, what effects it has on our lives, its costs and benefits to white people, and what we can do about it.
In addition to updating existing chapters, the new edition of Uprooting Racism explores how entrenched racism has been revealed in the new economy, the 2000 electoral debacle, rising anti-Arab prejudice, and health care policy. Special features include exercises, questions, and suggestions to engage, challenge assumptions, and motivate the reader towards social action. The new edition includes an index and an updated bibliography.
Marketing Plans:
• Print review campaign to progressive and social action magazines
• Web publicity campaign to progressive and activist sites
• Course adoption campaign
• Advertising in Education magazines
• Promotional mailing to libraries
Paul Kivel is the author of Boys Will Be Men (ISBN: 0-86571-395-2, New Society Publishers, 1999) and Men's Work (ISBN: 0-34537-939-X, Ballantine, 1998). He is the founder of the nationally recognized Oakland's Men's Project and has conducted hundreds of workshops on racism and anti-violence for teens and men all over the country. He lives in Oakland, California.
Also Available by Paul Kivel
Boys Will Be Men: Raising Our Sons for Courage, Caring, and Community
TP $16.95, 0-86571-395-2 • USA
1 pages, Audiobook
First published November 1, 1995
177 people are currently reading
4279 people want to read
About the author
Paul Kivel
29 books20 followersPaul Kivel is a social justice educator, activist, and writer, has been a leader in violence prevention for more than 45 years. He is a trainer and speaker on men's issues, racism and diversity, challenges of youth, teen dating and family violence, raising boys to manhood, and the impact of class and power on daily life. Paul has developed highly effective participatory and interactive methodologies for training youth and adults in a variety of settings. His work gives people the understanding to become involved in social justice work and the tools to become more effective allies in community struggles to end oppression and injustice and to transform organizations and institutions.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
July 13, 2013
This book was contradictory. I was offended and disappointed. As a "person of color" as the author would put it, I felt that the book tried to help white people learn how to work with and advocate for people of color but because the book was not written with any empathy it just ends up leading white people astray. If white people want to know how to work with people of color this book is NOT it. They should read a book written by those of color because they can navigate those who are willing. I was over this book when it stated "we don't need to believe or accept as true everything people to color say." And with statements like this the majority wonders why minorities don't trust them and chose not to work with them. PLEASE do not read this book as a manual or a be all end all on how to work with people of color because you will end up disappointed. I read this book for class and not one person of color (many different shades and cultures) enjoyed or recommended this book.... that should tell you something.
March 15, 2024
If you're wondering if he is,
yes, he is.
yes, he is.
January 29, 2011
I have very mixed feelings about this book. My biggest problem is that Kivel is racist. Which makes it difficult to swallow when he's shoving his "All whites are racist! You are racist!" message down your throat on the basis of his own racist, white upbringing. It's like he's bitter at the fact that he is subconsciously racist, despite his best efforts, but he makes himself feel better by telling everyone else that they're racist too. Well, I'm sorry Kivel, but when I see an African American man walk into the room, I don't automatically think he's the janitor like you do (yes, I can cite a page number). He also downplays other forms of discrimination and prejudice, including socioeconomic discrimination, homophobia, sexism, etc. EXCEPT his own personally experienced form of prejudice - anti-semitism, which Kivel firmly places as equal to racial discrimination, in America, in the twenty-first century.
Mixed feelings come into the picture because, despite my deep dislike for Kivel and much of the way he presents himself, he still has valuable things to say. Racism is a fact. A fact that many people ignore or pretend no longer exists. His insights and statistics are eye-opening to the wider world of subtle discrimination that still forms the bedrock of U.S. culture.
All in all, worth reading or skimming. But there are better books out there on the topic.
Mixed feelings come into the picture because, despite my deep dislike for Kivel and much of the way he presents himself, he still has valuable things to say. Racism is a fact. A fact that many people ignore or pretend no longer exists. His insights and statistics are eye-opening to the wider world of subtle discrimination that still forms the bedrock of U.S. culture.
All in all, worth reading or skimming. But there are better books out there on the topic.
February 11, 2015
A tough read as I'm not the target audience. As a person of color trying to read this as an assignment I was definitely put off by the patronizing style of the author. As well-meaning as he says he is, the author frequently makes many of the mistakes he is trying to convince his readers not to do. Perhaps if I was a caucasian male who was just beginning to think about these conversations, this book would have provided some meaningful fodder for conversation with other like-minded males. The questions and activities at the end of each chapter might also provide additional food for thought.
Still, I have a really difficult time recommending this book particularly if your audience contains people of color or other commonly marginalized members of society--especially those who might already be in the trenches doing social justice work.
Still, I have a really difficult time recommending this book particularly if your audience contains people of color or other commonly marginalized members of society--especially those who might already be in the trenches doing social justice work.
April 16, 2012
This is one of just a few books written by a white person FOR white people in an effort to educate about white culture, institutionalized racism, and privilege in the United States. This is an important book for any white person who hopes to combat racism.
Published in 1996, some of the examples feel a little dated by now, and readers may need to wade through a certain amount of redundancy to get to Kivel's main points. But his sections on being an ally and fighting institutionalized racism give powerful and concrete examples and tactics for taking action, and these make the book well worth the read.
Published in 1996, some of the examples feel a little dated by now, and readers may need to wade through a certain amount of redundancy to get to Kivel's main points. But his sections on being an ally and fighting institutionalized racism give powerful and concrete examples and tactics for taking action, and these make the book well worth the read.
January 18, 2017
A good starting point for white folx just learning to examine their privilege, but by no means an exhaustive study. Some good (if common sense) pointers, but nothing new for anyone already involved in the anti-racism movement. The "questions to ask yourself" sections were a nice way to push white folx to look internally and find their own prejudices, though.
I never read reviews until I'm finished a book, but now I wish I had. Many POC reviewers rated this poorly and pointed out things I wish I had noticed while reading the book. White privilege at its finest. Not sure if I am more disappointed in the book, or myself for not catching some of the overtly racist undertones.
I never read reviews until I'm finished a book, but now I wish I had. Many POC reviewers rated this poorly and pointed out things I wish I had noticed while reading the book. White privilege at its finest. Not sure if I am more disappointed in the book, or myself for not catching some of the overtly racist undertones.
September 15, 2016
"When we acknowledged racial problems we still felt that we, the white people, should decide how best to fix things." (p 70)
And yet... Here is the author (who says *many* times how white and Jewish he is) saying how to fix things. Maybe it's that this book is 20 years old, but it just left me eye rolling and frustrated. Monica nailed it in her review : there's no empathy. Mr. Kivel comes across condescending and arrogant.
And yet... Here is the author (who says *many* times how white and Jewish he is) saying how to fix things. Maybe it's that this book is 20 years old, but it just left me eye rolling and frustrated. Monica nailed it in her review : there's no empathy. Mr. Kivel comes across condescending and arrogant.
September 26, 2020
This book asks you a bazillion questions as you learn about racism and really makes you think. It starts with explaining what racism is and what is "whiteness" and goes on to take you through how racism affects families, jobs, other people, and many other aspects of life. It explains how to be an ally. It takes you through the history of racism (abbreviated but fairly thorough) for different groups. Then it talks about how you can fight against racism as we strive to become a "democratic, anti-racist multicultural" society. It also has a section on how to talk about racism to your children, with a list of resources to help you.
This is not an easy book to read, but it is so worth the effort. The more we learn about racism, the more that we can work to defeat it.
This is not an easy book to read, but it is so worth the effort. The more we learn about racism, the more that we can work to defeat it.
August 14, 2020
Every time there was something I wanted to take issue with, he went deeper and removed my objections. This is about the long haul, and taking action.
February 5, 2017
This is a book for white people. It is about what they can and should be doing to further an America that is truly about liberty and justice for all. If you think that we're already there, then read no further. You ain't ready.
The book itself is structured in short chapters and is meant to be used as a workbook or guide for someone who is committed to working through his/her own prejudices and living and acting as an ally for people of color. The central point of the book is that the continued existence of a white supremacist structure to our country and its institutions is real, and can only be rectified through the actions of people of all colors, which necessarily includes white people.
The structure of white supremacy includes areas as diverse as business, culture, religion, politics, housing, education, the justice system, and environmental policy. As a white man, it was not an easy book to ready – despite the fact that I have been married to a black woman for 30 years, have four biracial children, have lived with their experiences, and live in a relatively racially diverse community in Los Angeles. While I am encouraged with the progress on racial issues that I've seen in the course of my lifetime, it is clear that there remains much work to do.
This book addresses an area that is rarely considered in the fight for racial justice: what white people need to do and how they need to change if we are to make any more progress on the toxic levels of racism that still exist in this country. If you're white (and you're still reading this) you will be tempted to discount what I'm saying. Because it is uncomfortable to deal with the idea that a system that you think of as normal and fair and merit-based is in fact harmful to people because they are not considered "white."
Our culture has fully embraced a set of practices and structures that keep white people from being made uncomfortable by their racist actions. It is the responsibility of white people and not anyone else to fix the problem. It is not the task of our black or brown friends, neighbors, or coworkers to explain it to us. In fact, we are blessed to have people of color who have pointed out the issues that flow from racism and white supremacy, often at no small risk to themselves. As white people, we must remove the beam that is firmly embedded in our eye so that we can see what's really happening, and begin to change it for the better.
Please don't misunderstand me. I don't hate the fact that I'm white, nor do I hate white people. I don't hate America. I can recognize that it has provided me with certain privileges that I didn't earn and still look myself in the mirror every morning. But I can't be content doing nothing about the injustices that remain. If you share a similar point of view, or if you want to do something about racism that you've witnessed or been confronted with (whether it's your own or someone else's), then this book is worth your time.
The book itself is structured in short chapters and is meant to be used as a workbook or guide for someone who is committed to working through his/her own prejudices and living and acting as an ally for people of color. The central point of the book is that the continued existence of a white supremacist structure to our country and its institutions is real, and can only be rectified through the actions of people of all colors, which necessarily includes white people.
The structure of white supremacy includes areas as diverse as business, culture, religion, politics, housing, education, the justice system, and environmental policy. As a white man, it was not an easy book to ready – despite the fact that I have been married to a black woman for 30 years, have four biracial children, have lived with their experiences, and live in a relatively racially diverse community in Los Angeles. While I am encouraged with the progress on racial issues that I've seen in the course of my lifetime, it is clear that there remains much work to do.
This book addresses an area that is rarely considered in the fight for racial justice: what white people need to do and how they need to change if we are to make any more progress on the toxic levels of racism that still exist in this country. If you're white (and you're still reading this) you will be tempted to discount what I'm saying. Because it is uncomfortable to deal with the idea that a system that you think of as normal and fair and merit-based is in fact harmful to people because they are not considered "white."
Our culture has fully embraced a set of practices and structures that keep white people from being made uncomfortable by their racist actions. It is the responsibility of white people and not anyone else to fix the problem. It is not the task of our black or brown friends, neighbors, or coworkers to explain it to us. In fact, we are blessed to have people of color who have pointed out the issues that flow from racism and white supremacy, often at no small risk to themselves. As white people, we must remove the beam that is firmly embedded in our eye so that we can see what's really happening, and begin to change it for the better.
Please don't misunderstand me. I don't hate the fact that I'm white, nor do I hate white people. I don't hate America. I can recognize that it has provided me with certain privileges that I didn't earn and still look myself in the mirror every morning. But I can't be content doing nothing about the injustices that remain. If you share a similar point of view, or if you want to do something about racism that you've witnessed or been confronted with (whether it's your own or someone else's), then this book is worth your time.
July 7, 2020
The strength of this book is in it's description of racism in America. It's history. It's effects on various groups, and the economy/politics/institutions etc. The author provides a detailed view of racism and the tools to see it, understand it, and fight it. I think the end of the book is a little lefty-liberal for me but overall a very good text to read if you are going to educate yourself on racism.
February 9, 2015
What I didn't love: as a historian, I viewed the history chapters as both necessary and inadequate. I wish there was a bit more editorial oversight on the revision! However, ...
What I did love: the relentless focus on systems. Kivel pushes the reader to understand how deeply individual whites are implicated in ongoing racism, regardless of how personally "racist" they believe they are. The end of Part 2, especially the parts about whites working in "the buffer zone" (not just the justice system but education, social work, etc.) are a particular challenge to progressive white allies. I liked the way he encourages the reader towards practical research and action rather than navel-gazing.
What I did love: the relentless focus on systems. Kivel pushes the reader to understand how deeply individual whites are implicated in ongoing racism, regardless of how personally "racist" they believe they are. The end of Part 2, especially the parts about whites working in "the buffer zone" (not just the justice system but education, social work, etc.) are a particular challenge to progressive white allies. I liked the way he encourages the reader towards practical research and action rather than navel-gazing.
October 18, 2017
While reading, I had intense feelings of deja vu, and then realized I read this book back in June and forgot to write that down.
The target audience for Uprooting Racism is white people who are early in their journey of ethnic development and racial awareness. That said, it seems like it would be a hard book for people of color to read - too basic, too obvious, too assumptive.
I'd recommend this for young white folks who need more exposure and information about how pervasive racism is in everything. Kivel touches on how racism plays out in every major system in life (from healthcare to land rights) and the historical precedent.
The target audience for Uprooting Racism is white people who are early in their journey of ethnic development and racial awareness. That said, it seems like it would be a hard book for people of color to read - too basic, too obvious, too assumptive.
I'd recommend this for young white folks who need more exposure and information about how pervasive racism is in everything. Kivel touches on how racism plays out in every major system in life (from healthcare to land rights) and the historical precedent.
December 2, 2017
I'm one of the leaders of a chapter of Showing Up for Racial Justice, a national organization that organizes white people to take action for racial justice as part of a multiracial alliance. Occasionally a fellow white person asks me what single book I would recommend for learning about anti-racism, and I always recommend this one. Be sure to get the 4th edition.
People who are attracted to this book are invited to join Reading for Racial Justice, a group here on Goodreads.
People who are attracted to this book are invited to join Reading for Racial Justice, a group here on Goodreads.
June 24, 2020
After weeks of nearly all the news being focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, George Floyd, a black man, was killed in Minneapolis, Minnesota by Derek Chauvin, a white police officer. This event took over social media and triggered anti-racism protests and demonstrations all around the world. Many people muted their social media profiles or posted messages in support. I became painfully aware that before I could say anything meaningful about any of this, I need to better understand it.
When I discovered that the next category in Modern Mrs. Darcy's 2020 Reading Challenge was "A book outside your (genre) comfort zone," I checked Overdrive to see what ebooks about racism were available. Most of the popular titles were in use and won't be available for many months, but this one showed as "always available" so I downloaded it.
I'd have preferred a book that focused on Canada, but early on the author assures readers from outside the US that the issues are similar for us and that we need to find out more about what's happening in our own countries. That's all well and good, but I'd have appreciated some guidance on how to do that. I don't have all the time in the world to study history, politics, and what's happening throughout my community and my country.
Reading this book put me in mind of The Imperfect Environmentalist: A Practical Guide to Clearing Your Body, Detoxing Your Home, and Saving the Earth, which I read earlier this year. That book was somewhat reassuring because while showing that climate change is a big huge problem, Sara Gilbert acknowledged that we all have different financial and other commitments, and offered a range of actions we can take that will all make a difference, however small. Kivel, on the other hand, made me feel like if I don't get involved with the right organizations locally and globally, speak out in those I already belong to, educate my friends and family, and even more, then basically I have no right to call myself a human being.
I knew it would be uncomfortable to read, but I'd hoped to come away with some practical ideas about what I can do to make a difference. Since Kivel makes it sound like I can't possibly make a difference unless I committing my entire life to fighting racism, he hasn't succeeded in motivating me to take action.
I did learn a lot, however, and it made me realize how much of what I learned in school and throughout my life has been totally whitewashed.
My most important takeaway is that "not being a racist" is clearly not enough. Individual attitudes are important, but the real problem is systemic racism - written and unwritten policies that lead to discrimination in criminal justice, employment, housing, health care, political power, education, and other issues. I will hopefully be able to get my hands on one or more Canadian books to expand my knowledge further.
When I discovered that the next category in Modern Mrs. Darcy's 2020 Reading Challenge was "A book outside your (genre) comfort zone," I checked Overdrive to see what ebooks about racism were available. Most of the popular titles were in use and won't be available for many months, but this one showed as "always available" so I downloaded it.
I'd have preferred a book that focused on Canada, but early on the author assures readers from outside the US that the issues are similar for us and that we need to find out more about what's happening in our own countries. That's all well and good, but I'd have appreciated some guidance on how to do that. I don't have all the time in the world to study history, politics, and what's happening throughout my community and my country.
Reading this book put me in mind of The Imperfect Environmentalist: A Practical Guide to Clearing Your Body, Detoxing Your Home, and Saving the Earth, which I read earlier this year. That book was somewhat reassuring because while showing that climate change is a big huge problem, Sara Gilbert acknowledged that we all have different financial and other commitments, and offered a range of actions we can take that will all make a difference, however small. Kivel, on the other hand, made me feel like if I don't get involved with the right organizations locally and globally, speak out in those I already belong to, educate my friends and family, and even more, then basically I have no right to call myself a human being.
I knew it would be uncomfortable to read, but I'd hoped to come away with some practical ideas about what I can do to make a difference. Since Kivel makes it sound like I can't possibly make a difference unless I committing my entire life to fighting racism, he hasn't succeeded in motivating me to take action.
I did learn a lot, however, and it made me realize how much of what I learned in school and throughout my life has been totally whitewashed.
My most important takeaway is that "not being a racist" is clearly not enough. Individual attitudes are important, but the real problem is systemic racism - written and unwritten policies that lead to discrimination in criminal justice, employment, housing, health care, political power, education, and other issues. I will hopefully be able to get my hands on one or more Canadian books to expand my knowledge further.
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April 4, 2025Book Review: Uprooting Racism: How White People Can Work for Racial Justice
Authors: Paul Kivel
Foreword by: Howard Zinn
In Uprooting Racism: How White People Can Work for Racial Justice, Paul Kivel presents a critical examination of racism in society, specifically addressing how white individuals can actively engage in dismantling systemic inequalities. With a foreword by renowned historian and activist Howard Zinn, the book serves as both a guide and a call to action for those seeking to understand their role in the struggle for racial justice.
Summary
Kivel’s work is structured to provide practical tools and insights for white individuals who aspire to be allies in the fight against racism. The book includes a rich array of questions, exercises, and examples that challenge readers to reflect on their own perceptions and biases. Kivel emphasizes that understanding racism requires not only awareness but also a willingness to engage in difficult conversations and actions. The text is organized to facilitate a journey from awareness to action, making it accessible for readers who may be beginning their journey toward anti-racism.
Themes and Analysis
One of the central themes of Uprooting Racism is the notion of allyship. Kivel discusses what it means to be an effective ally, emphasizing that it involves not just supporting marginalized communities but also actively challenging systemic oppression. He encourages white individuals to confront their privilege and recognize the social structures that perpetuate racism.
The book also addresses the intersections of racism with other forms of oppression, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to social justice. Kivel’s inclusive perspective invites readers to consider how issues of class, gender, and sexuality intersect with race, thereby fostering a more comprehensive understanding of social justice.
Style and Tone
Kivel’s writing is engaging and straightforward, making complex concepts accessible to a broad audience. His tone is both educational and empowering, encouraging readers to take ownership of their role in promoting racial justice. The use of personal anecdotes and historical examples enriches the narrative, providing context that resonates with contemporary social issues.
Conclusion
Uprooting Racism is an essential resource for anyone interested in understanding and combating racism. Paul Kivel’s thoughtful approach, combined with Howard Zinn’s authoritative foreword, provides a solid foundation for readers seeking to engage in social justice work. The book is not only informative but also transformative, challenging its audience to rethink their attitudes and behaviors regarding race.
Recommendation
I highly recommend Uprooting Racism for educators, activists, and anyone committed to social justice. Its practical tools and reflective exercises make it an invaluable guide for individuals looking to develop their understanding of racial dynamics and to contribute meaningfully to the fight against racism. This book is a vital addition to discussions around race, privilege, and allyship in contemporary society.
Authors: Paul Kivel
Foreword by: Howard Zinn
In Uprooting Racism: How White People Can Work for Racial Justice, Paul Kivel presents a critical examination of racism in society, specifically addressing how white individuals can actively engage in dismantling systemic inequalities. With a foreword by renowned historian and activist Howard Zinn, the book serves as both a guide and a call to action for those seeking to understand their role in the struggle for racial justice.
Summary
Kivel’s work is structured to provide practical tools and insights for white individuals who aspire to be allies in the fight against racism. The book includes a rich array of questions, exercises, and examples that challenge readers to reflect on their own perceptions and biases. Kivel emphasizes that understanding racism requires not only awareness but also a willingness to engage in difficult conversations and actions. The text is organized to facilitate a journey from awareness to action, making it accessible for readers who may be beginning their journey toward anti-racism.
Themes and Analysis
One of the central themes of Uprooting Racism is the notion of allyship. Kivel discusses what it means to be an effective ally, emphasizing that it involves not just supporting marginalized communities but also actively challenging systemic oppression. He encourages white individuals to confront their privilege and recognize the social structures that perpetuate racism.
The book also addresses the intersections of racism with other forms of oppression, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to social justice. Kivel’s inclusive perspective invites readers to consider how issues of class, gender, and sexuality intersect with race, thereby fostering a more comprehensive understanding of social justice.
Style and Tone
Kivel’s writing is engaging and straightforward, making complex concepts accessible to a broad audience. His tone is both educational and empowering, encouraging readers to take ownership of their role in promoting racial justice. The use of personal anecdotes and historical examples enriches the narrative, providing context that resonates with contemporary social issues.
Conclusion
Uprooting Racism is an essential resource for anyone interested in understanding and combating racism. Paul Kivel’s thoughtful approach, combined with Howard Zinn’s authoritative foreword, provides a solid foundation for readers seeking to engage in social justice work. The book is not only informative but also transformative, challenging its audience to rethink their attitudes and behaviors regarding race.
Recommendation
I highly recommend Uprooting Racism for educators, activists, and anyone committed to social justice. Its practical tools and reflective exercises make it an invaluable guide for individuals looking to develop their understanding of racial dynamics and to contribute meaningfully to the fight against racism. This book is a vital addition to discussions around race, privilege, and allyship in contemporary society.
July 15, 2020
At first I was not sure about this book, written by a white man who sometimes used the term, “blacks.” It was first written in 1996 so may be a relic from that as it was just a portion of the book that it really stood out. How to name the groups we are talking about is just one of the interesting facets that somehow points out how we have to cope with the mirage of race. Race isn’t real. It does not exist. But racism is real, it does exist and must be dismantled. I found a lot of information helpful in the book, and appreciate the bare facts he compiles that make things clearer.
We are now in a third, major phase of racism/white supremacy in US history. The first phase included the military invasion and conquest of North America including theft of the land, genocide against Native Americans, and the mass enslavement of Africans. The second phase encompassed Jim Crow exploitation, segregation, industrialization, violence, and the assimilation of European immigrants into a system of white Christian cultural supremacy. The third and current phase is the stage of capitalism termed neoliberalism. Racism, a constantly shifting and adaptive system of white dominance, has looked different in each of these phases.
This book is not about unlearning racism. Unlearning racism makes it easier for people of color to live and work with us, but it doesn’t necessarily challenge racist structures.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with being white or with noticing the differences that color makes. You are not responsible for having white skin or for being raised in a white-dominated, racist society in which you have been trained to have particular responses to people of color. However, you are responsible for how you respond to racism (which is what this book is about), and you can only do so consciously and effectively if you begin by realizing it makes a crucial difference that you are perceived to be and treated as white.
When we say things like “I don’t see color,” we are trying to maintain a self-image of impartiality and innocence (whiteness). The only way to treat all people with dignity and justice is to recognize that racism has a profound negative effect upon all of our lives. Noticing skin color helps to counteract that effect. Instead of being color-neutral, we need to notice much more acutely and insightfully exactly the difference skin color makes in the way people are treated.
With wealth so concentrated at the top, most white people have much to gain from working with people of color to redistribute wealth and opportunity. However, racism often keeps poor, working, and middle-class white people from identifying their common struggles with people of color
We are now in a third, major phase of racism/white supremacy in US history. The first phase included the military invasion and conquest of North America including theft of the land, genocide against Native Americans, and the mass enslavement of Africans. The second phase encompassed Jim Crow exploitation, segregation, industrialization, violence, and the assimilation of European immigrants into a system of white Christian cultural supremacy. The third and current phase is the stage of capitalism termed neoliberalism. Racism, a constantly shifting and adaptive system of white dominance, has looked different in each of these phases.
This book is not about unlearning racism. Unlearning racism makes it easier for people of color to live and work with us, but it doesn’t necessarily challenge racist structures.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with being white or with noticing the differences that color makes. You are not responsible for having white skin or for being raised in a white-dominated, racist society in which you have been trained to have particular responses to people of color. However, you are responsible for how you respond to racism (which is what this book is about), and you can only do so consciously and effectively if you begin by realizing it makes a crucial difference that you are perceived to be and treated as white.
When we say things like “I don’t see color,” we are trying to maintain a self-image of impartiality and innocence (whiteness). The only way to treat all people with dignity and justice is to recognize that racism has a profound negative effect upon all of our lives. Noticing skin color helps to counteract that effect. Instead of being color-neutral, we need to notice much more acutely and insightfully exactly the difference skin color makes in the way people are treated.
With wealth so concentrated at the top, most white people have much to gain from working with people of color to redistribute wealth and opportunity. However, racism often keeps poor, working, and middle-class white people from identifying their common struggles with people of color
April 29, 2022
The author (Kivel) presents good subject matter but horribly executes his argument, offering poorly based ideologies as proposed solutions for racism in America.
This is a book that is (unknowingly to the author) based mainly on the poor morality of America. Racism is a morality issue that is ingrained in our institutions because of past individuals’ poor philosophical and moral bases, which means that the roots of racism are not grounded in our institutions and the upper class’ power, as Kivel would have put it, but instead in individuals’ (especially powerful individuals’) poor morality.
Kivel also seems to think that the money in the upper class (which has more white people than people of color) should be distributed equitably to communities of color to reduce white people’s power and increase the power of people of color. Ultimately, Kivel wants full inclusion of every type of person in all organizations in America (so he essentially wants the extreme opposite of segregation) and desires equity over concentrated power. The issue I have with this viewpoint is that power can never be distributed equally in a society without the high likelihood of chaos ensuing. Concentrated power in a society is what keeps people civilized, as opposed to anarchy.
In America, the majority of its citizens decide who should be in power in the government, which keeps the powerful in check. The organization of the U.S. government also allows powerful individuals to keep other powerful individuals in check, with the judicial, executive, and legislative branches separated. In addition, capitalism in America allows for maximum efficiency in technological advancement in a natural and relatively self-sustaining way, which pushes the poverty line upwards relatively quickly, and allows those individuals with the most ability to adequately fulfill the demands of consumers to also gain exponentially substantial power. In any case, the power in a society should be given to individuals who are the most morally just, and, in the U.S., is decided both manually with democratic elections and naturally in the processes of capitalism. In this way, the morality of our leaders depends on our morality.
We will be more equipped to face the challenges surrounding racism if we read books about philosophy and/or theology than books like this, which are most likely intuitively about the issues surrounding racism as well. If it needs to be said, we should also focus on becoming self-disciplined and morally just individuals, too, if we truly want to defeat racism.
This is a book that is (unknowingly to the author) based mainly on the poor morality of America. Racism is a morality issue that is ingrained in our institutions because of past individuals’ poor philosophical and moral bases, which means that the roots of racism are not grounded in our institutions and the upper class’ power, as Kivel would have put it, but instead in individuals’ (especially powerful individuals’) poor morality.
Kivel also seems to think that the money in the upper class (which has more white people than people of color) should be distributed equitably to communities of color to reduce white people’s power and increase the power of people of color. Ultimately, Kivel wants full inclusion of every type of person in all organizations in America (so he essentially wants the extreme opposite of segregation) and desires equity over concentrated power. The issue I have with this viewpoint is that power can never be distributed equally in a society without the high likelihood of chaos ensuing. Concentrated power in a society is what keeps people civilized, as opposed to anarchy.
In America, the majority of its citizens decide who should be in power in the government, which keeps the powerful in check. The organization of the U.S. government also allows powerful individuals to keep other powerful individuals in check, with the judicial, executive, and legislative branches separated. In addition, capitalism in America allows for maximum efficiency in technological advancement in a natural and relatively self-sustaining way, which pushes the poverty line upwards relatively quickly, and allows those individuals with the most ability to adequately fulfill the demands of consumers to also gain exponentially substantial power. In any case, the power in a society should be given to individuals who are the most morally just, and, in the U.S., is decided both manually with democratic elections and naturally in the processes of capitalism. In this way, the morality of our leaders depends on our morality.
We will be more equipped to face the challenges surrounding racism if we read books about philosophy and/or theology than books like this, which are most likely intuitively about the issues surrounding racism as well. If it needs to be said, we should also focus on becoming self-disciplined and morally just individuals, too, if we truly want to defeat racism.
December 19, 2020
This is a more comprehensive dive into the conversation about race in the US, but even so is still only one among many, *many* resources and perspectives given the complexity of the topic. This book would serve well in a course or book club where it is augmented with other resources and expansive, meaningful dialogue within a community.
The book is divided into several sections. Parts 1 and 2, “What Color is White” and “The Dynamics of Racism,” provide overviews of racism in the US. Here you can learn and build up a vocabulary of terms and concepts that are consistent in the field of racial justice. Part 3, “Being Allies,” provides actionable suggestions and resources for those who want to be more proactive participants (on a personal level) in the fight against racism. Part 4, “The Effects of History,” is a necessary but *very* cursory review of the various races’ histories in the US, and right off the bat will probably challenge many assumptions we all have about various non-white ethnicities living in the country. If anything, this section is merely an introduction to the various histories and traumas experienced by non-white cultures. Part 5, “Fighting Institutional Racism,” is arguably one of the most difficult chapters to internalize as it details the level of injustice in which we all participate everyday, whether it is explicit or implicit. Part 6, “Democratic, Anti-Racist Multiculturalism,” touches on more advanced concepts of anti-racist behavior and actions, and is a nice conclusion to the book, not least because it provides thoughtful words on how to stay resilient (and mentally healthy) in such a difficult fight.
The book is divided into several sections. Parts 1 and 2, “What Color is White” and “The Dynamics of Racism,” provide overviews of racism in the US. Here you can learn and build up a vocabulary of terms and concepts that are consistent in the field of racial justice. Part 3, “Being Allies,” provides actionable suggestions and resources for those who want to be more proactive participants (on a personal level) in the fight against racism. Part 4, “The Effects of History,” is a necessary but *very* cursory review of the various races’ histories in the US, and right off the bat will probably challenge many assumptions we all have about various non-white ethnicities living in the country. If anything, this section is merely an introduction to the various histories and traumas experienced by non-white cultures. Part 5, “Fighting Institutional Racism,” is arguably one of the most difficult chapters to internalize as it details the level of injustice in which we all participate everyday, whether it is explicit or implicit. Part 6, “Democratic, Anti-Racist Multiculturalism,” touches on more advanced concepts of anti-racist behavior and actions, and is a nice conclusion to the book, not least because it provides thoughtful words on how to stay resilient (and mentally healthy) in such a difficult fight.
September 12, 2020
This book was illuminating for me. I am a white man who grew up in an affluent suburb. My parents were liberal. We talked about prejudice and treating people well regardless of skin color, sex, religion or nationality. However, my world was largely white. There were no African-American students in our school.
When I went to college, I met and socialized with some African-Americans and Asian-Americans. Our relationships were casual, though. I sometimes thought about the challenges that they had simply because of their skin color or nationality but I never thought about the system behind that.
Uprooting Racism has made me aware of that system. Who has the power and who doesn't? Who is present and who is not? What are the structures that perpetuate unequal access and treatment on a large scale? The book has made me realize that racism is a system, not just the prejudices of individuals. That system has a history. It is entrenched. It is bound up with capitalism and economic exploitation.
I now want to be part of the solution, not as a savior but as a helper, not for appearance but for systemic change that improves peoples' lives, not to feel good but to help make things more just. I highly recommend this book to white people, especially white men with a background like mine.
When I went to college, I met and socialized with some African-Americans and Asian-Americans. Our relationships were casual, though. I sometimes thought about the challenges that they had simply because of their skin color or nationality but I never thought about the system behind that.
Uprooting Racism has made me aware of that system. Who has the power and who doesn't? Who is present and who is not? What are the structures that perpetuate unequal access and treatment on a large scale? The book has made me realize that racism is a system, not just the prejudices of individuals. That system has a history. It is entrenched. It is bound up with capitalism and economic exploitation.
I now want to be part of the solution, not as a savior but as a helper, not for appearance but for systemic change that improves peoples' lives, not to feel good but to help make things more just. I highly recommend this book to white people, especially white men with a background like mine.
August 7, 2017
Because I read this book for work I think that my take on this book is based on that experience in a way reading a book of my own choosing would not be. There are some sections I know I will want to revisit again. I think the 3 stars are because there were some stylistic choices that I found off-putting. I also think that this book will only be good in comparison to books written by people of color about their own experiences. As a black woman I found some aspects of the way race had to be discussed for White People to understand to be so almost pandering seeming. I would definitely recommend if you want a book that you can bring into the workplace. It has sparked lots of great conversations amongst my colleagues.
February 12, 2018
Racial justice is not alive and well in Canada. An all-white jury in Saskatchewan, Canada, recently found Gerald Stanley not guilty in the shooting death of unarmed Colten Boushie, a 22-year-old Cree man.
The reissue of Kivel's book is a timely, heartfelt and evocative plea for a society where everyone wants racial justice and works for it, not just the people targeted, threatened, undervalued, jailed, and sometimes killed for the lack of it. A society where each of us is valued, where all of us are safe. If white people don't work for racial justice, we will never attain it.
The reissue of Kivel's book is a timely, heartfelt and evocative plea for a society where everyone wants racial justice and works for it, not just the people targeted, threatened, undervalued, jailed, and sometimes killed for the lack of it. A society where each of us is valued, where all of us are safe. If white people don't work for racial justice, we will never attain it.
June 21, 2020
First I will say that I skimmed this book and read only parts. There were times I felt as though I was not the audience (being a person of color). Paul Kivel goes into depth about how far racism goes into this country and where the roots begin. This goes farther than slavery to when Europeans first stepped foot on these coast. However the information while some parts did go in depth with their information and statistics the rest remained on the surface. Kivel does challenge readers to combat their racism and racism in their homes and communities.
April 9, 2021
I wasted 5 weeks of my life working through this book. This book is very bad. There are so many better antiracist texts not written by mediocre white men. If I wasn't reading this for a work thing I would have DNF'd in the first hundred pages.
The only reason this is getting two stars is because the last section about institutional racism was actually informative and didn't tokenize identity and provided me with some new information.
There are plenty of way more eloquent reviews of this book and I encourage you to read them
The only reason this is getting two stars is because the last section about institutional racism was actually informative and didn't tokenize identity and provided me with some new information.
There are plenty of way more eloquent reviews of this book and I encourage you to read them
May 17, 2018
A well-rounded and smartly updated guide to recognizing and identifying current and historical racism and implementing practical tactics to combat oppression within oneself and society. I've been learning about hierarchy, oppression, and the experiences of people different than me for over two decades and I still gained much through reading this book. This was a selection of our Showing Up for Racial Justice chapter's bookgroup, and I highly recommend reading and discussing with other folks.
January 3, 2020
Hard to assess this book. Who is the intended audience? Most people who need to hear the message would be put off by its presentation here.
The downside is that it is extremely negative. The upside is that it gives really great talking points that could be used in a discussion group. I would only recommend this book if you plan on using it in a book group and have well-educated, open-minded people to discuss it with.
The downside is that it is extremely negative. The upside is that it gives really great talking points that could be used in a discussion group. I would only recommend this book if you plan on using it in a book group and have well-educated, open-minded people to discuss it with.
December 25, 2017
This is a good, nuanced book for white people to read. Kivel covers the history of racial injustice, which has been both perpetrated and enabled by white people--by people like me. Enabled and perpetrated by our action and inaction, by our words and our silence. It is both very readable, and very difficult to read.
May 21, 2019
It felt like it took me ages to read this book, but honestly I found it insightful and heartfelt. Do I agree with Paul on every sentence? Of course not. Do I think that people interested in social justice could learn something by reading this? Absolutely! My favorite parts were the last two (4 & 5), but I read the 4th edition so I can’t speak for later versions
January 19, 2022
Very insightful, and inspiring
I love learning more about our country's racist legacy and how it affects all people of color, and how I can make a difference in dismantling racism and become a effective ally with all people of color in ending racism for good one sweet day. I recommend this book to everyone who is serious about uprooting racism for good.
I love learning more about our country's racist legacy and how it affects all people of color, and how I can make a difference in dismantling racism and become a effective ally with all people of color in ending racism for good one sweet day. I recommend this book to everyone who is serious about uprooting racism for good.
February 9, 2022
This book was really hard to read especially since it is written by a white person equating racial injustice to anti-semitism, which are both about discrimination, but this book is literally called “Uprooting Racism”. I stopped a third of the way through and picked up So You Want to Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oulo (and I highly recommend the latter).
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