Roots and Rebellion: Personal Stories of Resisting Racism and Reclaiming Identity

People from minoritized groups in the UK have fought back against racial injustice through advocacy, activism, and everyday acts of resistance. This anthology showcases their stories, spanning generations, cultures, and communities, highlighting subtle acts of resistance as well as bold rebellions. The stories explore the complexities of feeling caught between identities and the joyful freedom found in reclaiming and rediscovering who you are.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 21 February 2024
Publisher: Jessica Kingsley Publishers

Despite the UK's long history of racial injustice, people from minoritized groups have fought back, engaging in advocacy, activism, and everyday acts of resistance to create positive change. This anthology is a prize-winning collection of these stories, spanning generations, cultures, and communities. They tell of subtle everyday acts of resistance like cooking traditional dishes from recipes passed down from grandparents displaced from their homelands, challenging microaggressions in the workplace, and sending care packages to relatives in occupied states. They also highlight bold and defiant rebellions such as building a successful business from scratch and against the odds, making perilous journeys, and fighting unlawful deportation. The fabric of these stories is made up of resistance, but also of belonging. They explore the complexities of feeling caught between identities as well as the joyful freedom found in reclaiming and rediscovering who you are. Full of humanity and bravery, this inspiring and unique kaleidoscope of journeys speaks to how nuanced and personal resistance against racism can be.

Introduction:
The UK has a complex and often painful history of racial injustice, with marginalized communities facing systemic discrimination and inequality. However, despite the challenges they face, these communities have not been silenced. Instead, they have fought back, using their voices, their actions, and their resilience to create positive change.

Advocacy and Activism:
People from minoritized groups have been at the forefront of advocating for their rights and equality. They have organized protests, rallies, and campaigns to raise awareness about issues such as racism, discrimination, and police brutality. They have also worked tirelessly to lobby politicians and policymakers, seeking to enact laws and policies that promote diversity and inclusivity.

Everyday Acts of Resistance:
In addition to advocacy and activism, people from minoritized groups have also engaged in everyday acts of resistance. These acts may seem small, but they have a significant impact on challenging the status quo. For example, individuals may cook traditional dishes from their cultural heritage, challenging the notion that certain foods are "exotic" or "other." They may also challenge microaggressions in the workplace, such as racist jokes or comments, by speaking out and advocating for change.

Bold and Defiant Rebellions:
Some people from minoritized groups have taken more drastic measures to resist racism and injustice. They may have started their own businesses, challenging the dominant economic system and providing opportunities for themselves and their communities. They may have made perilous journeys to escape persecution or to seek a better life elsewhere. They may have also fought against unlawful deportation, advocating for their right to stay in their homes and communities.

Resistance and Belonging:
The stories in this anthology showcase the complex interplay between resistance and belonging. They explore the challenges of navigating multiple identities and the joy of reclaiming and rediscovering who you are. They highlight the importance of community and support, as well as the power of collective action.

Conclusion:
Despite the UK's long history of racial injustice, people from minoritized groups have shown incredible strength and resilience. They have used their voices, their actions, and their creativity to challenge the status quo and create a more just and equitable society. This anthology is a testament to their bravery and determination, and it serves as a reminder that resistance against racism is not only possible, but it is also necessary.

Weight: 122g
Dimension: 197 x 129 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839972836