Editor's Note: This review was originally published in San Diego Book Review.
Culture and identity converge in the lived realities of high-achieving and prominent Irish nationals who identify as Black or mixed-race, a group often referred to as “Black Irish”. In Black and Irish, Leon Diop and Briana Fitzimmons raise awareness about their years-long project to educate the world about the contributions of twenty-five Black celebrities, writers, athletes, politicians, and others who are challenging and changing narratives about Irish identity. Each profile spotlights key moments in the lives of prominent Black Irish individuals who are making a difference in their fields.
The roots of Black folks in Ireland run deep, tracing back to the significant visit of American abolitionist Frederick Douglass. Throughout the 20th century, Ireland became a beacon, attracting migration from across the Pan-African diaspora. Today, the vibrant and resilient Black Irish community continues to flourish, growing in power and influence.
Approaching this book from my perspective as an Asian immigrant to the United States, I found resonance in the stories of first- and second-generation Black Irish folks. Their experiences echoed those of other newcomers to the U.S., fostering a sense of shared understanding and unity. I was particularly moved by the all-Black collaboration highlighted in the book, which includes illustrated portraits by Jessica Louis.
The authors shared the project’s solidarity with the global Black Lives Matter movement that was spurred by the tragic murder of George Floyd. This revelation was a touching testimony to the enduring potency of antiracist education and action.
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| Leon Diop |
Culture and identity converge in the lived realities of high-achieving and prominent Irish nationals who identify as Black or mixed-race, a group often referred to as “Black Irish”. In Black and Irish, Leon Diop and Briana Fitzimmons raise awareness about their years-long project to educate the world about the contributions of twenty-five Black celebrities, writers, athletes, politicians, and others who are challenging and changing narratives about Irish identity. Each profile spotlights key moments in the lives of prominent Black Irish individuals who are making a difference in their fields.
The roots of Black folks in Ireland run deep, tracing back to the significant visit of American abolitionist Frederick Douglass. Throughout the 20th century, Ireland became a beacon, attracting migration from across the Pan-African diaspora. Today, the vibrant and resilient Black Irish community continues to flourish, growing in power and influence.
Approaching this book from my perspective as an Asian immigrant to the United States, I found resonance in the stories of first- and second-generation Black Irish folks. Their experiences echoed those of other newcomers to the U.S., fostering a sense of shared understanding and unity. I was particularly moved by the all-Black collaboration highlighted in the book, which includes illustrated portraits by Jessica Louis.
The authors shared the project’s solidarity with the global Black Lives Matter movement that was spurred by the tragic murder of George Floyd. This revelation was a touching testimony to the enduring potency of antiracist education and action.
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