Book Preface
Book Preface written by Dr. Joseph E. Lowery
President Emeritus, SCLC
Chairman of the Black Leadership Forum
"Living in the Shadows of a Legend" represents a critical contribution to the continuing movement for social and economic justice. Truly, it was the unselfishness of otherwise ordinary men and women who constituted what is known as the Civil Rights Movement. I am honored to have worked with the author and his subjects and applaud this effort to recognize the courage, dedication and unceasing commitment of twenty stalwart soldiers of the movement. Deric Gilliard has done an excellent job of capturing the oral histories of a distinguished group of civil rights activists.
This little volume holds tremendous value as an educational tool that brings the civil rights movement to live through the personal stories of the "foot soldiers" of the struggle. Reading "Shadows", we are transported to a not-so-distant era of Jim Crow - American apartheid - where Blacks were second-class citizens forced to endure daily assaults upon their dignity and basic security. "Shadows" subjects are well known within the inner circles of the civil rights movement, but have never been widely recognized for their sacrifice and contribution. Moving, first-hand recollections of a time when the peaceful pursuit of justice and equality was a life-threatening endeavor, eloquently portray the power of the individual, young or old, to take a stand and make a difference. "Shadows" is required reading for those seeking to fully understand one of the most powerful social movements of the 20th century. The writing reveals a poignant past replete with deep personal sacrifice, understated heroism and extraordinary acts of faith.
Each of the individuals portrayed here tells a small part of the story; taken as a whole, "Shadows" is a potent reminder of how far we have come. It also serves as a celebration of the sturdy backs that form the bridge to a more just future. Above all, the philosophy of non-violence is illustrated through the lives and work of each artist. As we encounter new challenges and old struggles, it is important to acknowledge the fact that these workers were victorious in bringing about major change. Each inspirational account resonates spiritually, intellectually and emotionally. Those stories deserve a place of prominence and pride in our collective memory.
Faith, justice and love constitute the spiritual punctuation that weaves through Gilliard's work, making the reading greater than the style, the author of even the fine men and women recognized. "Shadows" captures the essence of change, community and consciousness.
Love Embraces Justice,
Joseph E. Lowery
President Emeritus, SCLC
Chairman, Black Leadership Forum
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