End of Respectability

Anthony Walton is the author of Mississippi: An American Journey, among other books. His writing has appeared widely. He teaches at Bowdoin College.

“Respectability has long been used as a tool for survival in a dominant White society and a source of internal conflict within the Black community. In The End of Respectability, Walton critically examines its role and effectiveness in pursuing equality and authenticity....His use of vivid descriptions and compelling anecdotes keeps readers invested in the story, which is emotionally resonant. He captures the pain, frustration, and hope of negotiating the landmines of Black racial identity. Walton's reflections encourage readers to reconsider their beliefs and assumptions to understand the complexities and contradictions of race in America.”—Seattle Book Review“A spirited and informed assessment of American racism beyond headlines and politics.”—Kirkus“Anthony Walton is a formidable intellectual who writes with insight, verve, and conviction. I learned much from The End of Respectability, enjoyed reading it, and hope that it attains the visibility it deserves.”—Randall Kennedy, author of Say It Loud!: On Race, Law, History, and Culture“Essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the complications of racism and its effects on political polarization in America today. Anthony Walton is a teller of difficult truths, and you cannot read this book without finding that it has given you new knowledge about your own life.”—Molly Jong-Fast, Vanity Fair politics writer and host of the podcast Fast Politics“‘After Obama, America stands revealed to itself,’ Anthony Walton writes withprofound disappointment in one of his bleak and bold, truth-telling essays. NoBlack writer wants to play the role of educating white folks, but Walton writesto be heard by all.” —Megan Marshall, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Margaret Fuller: A New American Life