Speaking my Soul: Race, Life and Language

The book Speaking My Soul by John R. Rickford explores his life journey, from his childhood in Guyana to his academic career in the USA, focusing on his experiences as a black scholar and his work championing Black Talk and its speakers. It highlights his racial identity transformation, his work with civil rights icons, and his contribution to the study of African American language and culture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 190 pages
Publication date: 29 December 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The honest story of linguist John R. Rickford's life is presented in Speaking My Soul, spanning from his early years in Guyana to his esteemed position as Emeritus Professor of Linguistics at Stanford. This memoir delves into the profound transformation of Rickford's identity, from being classified as colored or mixed race in Guyana to identifying as black in the United States. Moreover, it chronicles his unwavering dedication to championing Black Talk and its speakers.

This inspiring tale of personal and professional growth showcases the remarkable journey of a black scholar, from his humble beginnings as an immigrant to the United States to his status as a world-renowned expert in the study of African American life, history, language, and culture. In this captivating memoir, Rickford relives pivotal moments that shaped his racial identity, including his election as president of the Black Student Association at the University of California, Santa Cruz; his participation in black expeditions to various destinations, including the South Carolina Sea Islands, Jamaica, Belize, and Ghana; and his encounters with civil rights icons such as Huey P. Newton, Rosa Parks, and South African Dennis Brutus.

Rickford's work extends beyond academia, as he collaborated closely with Rachel Jeantel, the close friend of Trayvon Martin, who was a crucial witness in the trial of George Zimmerman for Martin's murder. Zimmerman's acquittal sparked the Black Lives Matter movement, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by African Americans in education and criminal justice.

Speaking My Soul is not just a memoir; it is a testament to Rickford's unwavering commitment to social justice and his profound understanding of the richness of African American language. With a foreword by poet John Agard, this book offers valuable insights into the experiences of a former Director of African and African American Studies, whose work has significantly contributed to our understanding of African American language and raised awareness of the educational and criminal justice challenges faced by African Americans.

This book is an essential read for students and faculty in the fields of linguistics, mixed race studies, African American studies, and social justice. It provides a comprehensive perspective on the experiences and struggles of black individuals, shedding light on the complexities of race, identity, and language in a globalized world. Through Rickford's storytelling, readers are invited to explore the rich tapestry of African American culture and history, fostering empathy, understanding, and a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human experiences.

Weight: 362g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032068831