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Lifting As They Climbed

A Mapped History of Chicago's Black Women Trailblazers
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( 27 ratings, 3 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Lifting As They Climbed by Essence McDowell and Mariame Kaba delves into the rich history of Chicago’s African-American community, spotlighting the influential women who played pivotal roles in its development. The book combines historical narrative with biographical sketches, offering insights into the figures who fought for social justice and uplifted their communities. It emphasises collective empowerment and the interconnected nature of their struggles and achievements.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$3999
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you're interested in uncovering the rich and somewhat overlooked contributions of African American women in Chicago's history. It shines a light on their remarkable activism, challenging conventional narratives and celebrating their pioneering roles in the city's socio-political landscape. If you value stories of resilience and empowerment, this book could be an inspiring read.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

An essential guidebook to influential Black women from Chicago's South and West Sides, and their social, cultural, and artistic contributions to movements both past and present.

Geographically, historically, and politically, Lifting As They Climbed gives readers an in-depth understanding of the numerous Black women, from the nineteenth century to today, who empower(ed) their neighbourhoods and communities. Structured as a self-guided walking tour, with crisp maps and accessible narratives, Lifting As They Climbed showcases seventy-five womenβ€”activists, artists, musicians, and moreβ€”through sites and landmarks on Chicago's South and West Sides.

Including Margaret Burroughs, Gwendolyn Brooks, Mahalia Jackson, and many others, this updated and extended edition is a testament to women whose stories have gone largely untold, and whose lives reveal powerful connections between their endeavours and present-day struggles for radical community-building and solidarity. With no "official" landmarks to preserve the history of their social justice efforts, this book is an intervention against their erasure.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The book offers a compelling exploration of Black women's history on Chicago's South Side, capturing the lived experiences, struggles, and contributions of remarkable individuals in the community. It serves as both a tribute and a reclamation of memory, acting as a precious family album that honors the legacy of these women. Readers are likely to come away with a newfound appreciation for the rich historical tapestry of this area.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781642599015

Publisher: Haymarket Books

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 08 August 2023

Country: United States

Imprint: Haymarket Books

Illustration: Color illustrations throughout

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 139.0mm

Height: 215.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 120

About the Author

Mariame Kaba is the founder and director of Project NIA, a grassroots organization with a vision to end youth incarceration, the author of We Do This 'Til We Free Us as well as the children's books Missing Daddy and See You Soon, and the recipient of the Cultural Freedom Prize from the Lannan Foundation.

Essence McDowell has worked with numerous national and local entities including Illinois Humanities Council, Chicago Torture Justice Memorials, Incite National, the Chicago Public Library, and Chicago Teachers Union, and is currently collaborating with organizers in Chicago to develop a resource hub for a national Black Women's Organizing Coalition.

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