Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man – By: Emmanuel Acho

Reviewed By: Alan Keiter

Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man, by Emmanuel Acho, is rather unique in the way it provides a nuanced approach to understanding racism in America. The son of Nigerian immigrants who grew up in Texas, Acho connects his own experience with race and racism, including his majority-white prep school education with his time in majority-black NFL locker rooms, combined with lessons of history and culture and wisdom from other black voices. In each of the short chapters, he sets the tone for a friendly, honest, frank and sometimes uncomfortable discussion about various aspects of racism in America. He takes on topics such as why whites should never use the N-word, the meaning of terms like structural racism and white privilege from a Black perspective, why we should not teach our kids to be “color-blind”, the struggles of broken-apart black families, and many more. He also provides many insights into cultural differences. His approach is one of openness in which he risks vulnerability and encourages the reader to be vulnerable too. Acho provides ways that we can help eradicate racism, showing how we can be allies in this struggle. Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man is highly recommended for anyone who wants to more fully understand the real impact of racism and who seeks to help end it.

Consider buying your books locally from Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee and Books or other BIPOC-owned independent bookstores.