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My View From the Back of the Bus
Through his lens as a "colored" child, "Negro" teenager, "Black" young man, and finally successful African American state official, this book reveals how Merritt D. Long was shaped by - and helped to shape - American history.
Jim Crow laws, segregation and the civil rights movement are the backdrop to Long's childhood and youth in Alabama in the 1950's and 1960's. As a child, the color of Long's skin dictated what doors he could walk through, where he could sit on the bus, where he could eat, and what water fountains he could use.
But like many other southern Black people, the powerful pride of his family and community steeled him against the incessant insults of racism. And the civil rights movement help fuel his determination to become an educated, successful professional.
Along the way, including a Morehouse College education in Atlanta, he met and was inspired by Muhammed Ali, Rosa Parks, and Julian Bond. But even at the pinnacle of his professional success as the head of several major state agencies, he continued to experience racist reactions to his authority and leadership.
His journey led him to become a widely admired community leader, a loving husband and father, and a mentor and benefactor to the next generation of young people who struggle to overcome economic hardship and the still-present barriers of entrenched, systemic racism.
Jim Crow laws, segregation and the civil rights movement are the backdrop to Long's childhood and youth in Alabama in the 1950's and 1960's. As a child, the color of Long's skin dictated what doors he could walk through, where he could sit on the bus, where he could eat, and what water fountains he could use.
But like many other southern Black people, the powerful pride of his family and community steeled him against the incessant insults of racism. And the civil rights movement help fuel his determination to become an educated, successful professional.
Along the way, including a Morehouse College education in Atlanta, he met and was inspired by Muhammed Ali, Rosa Parks, and Julian Bond. But even at the pinnacle of his professional success as the head of several major state agencies, he continued to experience racist reactions to his authority and leadership.
His journey led him to become a widely admired community leader, a loving husband and father, and a mentor and benefactor to the next generation of young people who struggle to overcome economic hardship and the still-present barriers of entrenched, systemic racism.
294 pages, Paperback
Published December 22, 2020
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February 16, 2021
As the teacher Librarian at Olympia High School, I had the great pleasure of sitting on a panel with OSD students and teachers to interview and chat with writer, Merritt Long. Through his insight and storytelling we gain understanding for the experiences of many African Americans who lived in the segregated south during the 60s. Mr. Long writes and speaks with a voice that brings forward resilience and advocacy. The book is written chronologically, detailing memories from his early childhood through his recent experiences as a local, political leader. I strongly recommend this book for all generations to experience.
Displaying 1 of 1 review