Black Folk by Blair L.M. Kelley

The Roots of the Black Working Class

"Black Folk" by Blair L.M. Kelley delves into the rich history of the Black working class in America, spanning 200 years. The book highlights the lives of everyday Black workers, from enslaved ancestors to essential workers during the Covid-19 pandemic. It explores the roles of laundresses, Pullman porters, domestic maids, and postal workers who became a significant force in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These workers, often confined to segregated neighborhoods, found community and resilience in shared spaces, laying the groundwork for future labor movements and civil rights. Through personal stories of her own family, Kelley illustrates the enduring spirit and vision for a better future that has driven generations of Black workers.

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