The Exceptional Negro: Racism, White Privilege and the Lie of Respectability Politics

by Traci D. O'Neal

Lawyer. Mother. Elected Official. Target. Traci O’Neal was thrust into the national spotlight in 2017 when local threats grew into a national racist outcry after a former GOP Presidential candidate singled her out on social media. What followed was a deeply disturbing and widespread campaign of hatred and egregiously racist attacks. The death threats, harassment, and vitriol reinforced what Traci had always understood – there’s no room in white America for an Exceptional Negro. The Exceptional Racism, White Privilege and the Lie of Respectability Politics tells the story of how Traci went from a black, female attorney, living a very solidly middle-class life, feeling insulated from “too much” racism because of her education and socioeconomic status, to the realization that it was all the lie of respectability politics, and at the end of day, she is still a negro in white America’s eyes, albeit an exceptional one. The Exceptional Negro is a frank discussion of race, law, and politics. Through Traci’s lens as a “reformed Exceptional Negro”, she issues a call to action for white folks to dismantle systemic racism and more importantly, for black folks to discuss and consider the “Pro-Black Reconstruction Strategy” to lessen dependence on America’s racist systems, and thus, the impact of racism in their lives. America expects black people to assimilate, which by definition, fixes "whiteness" as the standard. But what would happen if black people challenge and resist that notion? An award-winning fierce, unwavering social justice advocate, Traci D. O'Neal is a frequent speaker on race, law and politics, as well as equity and leadership. Traci earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the School of Business & Industry at Florida A&M University and a Juris Doctor degree from The Ohio State University College of Law. Visit www.theexceptionalnegro.com for more information.

Genres: Nonfiction

180 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 12, 2018

Reviews

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book draws on prior works in the field and goes on to expand upon them. The author shares some personal stories of her experiences with racism which I found to be a very valuable addition to the text. I also liked that she gives some actions to consider taking, both for Black families and white people who want to be allies. Disclosure: Growing up, I was friends with the author; we were in the same high school graduating class and though our paths diverged after that, we are still in touch on social media to this day.

[Reginald Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Read

Great minds discuss ideas. Tracy O’Neal certainly achieved this task. Everyone who are aware should read this book. The revolution may not be televised but here it is in print.

[Margaret Klein · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well-written, challenging book written by a former elected official, school board member, attorney and mother, to explain her process of being "woke" (yes, it is a verb!). Balancing her own story with current research of respectable sources, this hard-hitting documentary pulls no punches and makes clear to the black community that they cannot rely on the status-quo and that they have been left out and left behind time and time again. As a white ally, the book could be uncomfortable--and that's OK. At times, she was speaking directly to me, and others like me and at times I wanted to challenge her right back. (and I will, that's part of the advantage of my white privilege) Well worth the read.

[Audreyanna Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book, well written and informative! There are so many things unknown, that are shared in this book, and it’s a pleasure when people share their expertise for the greater good! Definitely recommend the read!