A Crime Against Humanity Sent Me to Harvard

A Crime Against Humanity Sent Me to Harvard

When I say publicly that I’m descended from slave owners, I almost always hear a gasp. I let the tension hang a moment and then I break it: “Well, someone has to be, right?” This usually gets a laugh, or at least a humph of recognition. Because many...
What Caused the Charleston Massacre?

What Caused the Charleston Massacre?

The recent mass murder of worshippers in an African-American church in Charleston, South Carolina raises troubling questions for all Americans. First among them: How could this have happened? I think the answer to that one is easy. We live in a heavily armed society....
Not About Us Without Us

Not About Us Without Us

A few of my African friends have adopted a slogan: “not about us without us.” They use it to protest international decisions about their continent that are developed without any input from African people. It’s a wonderful phrase. I think it applies...
Re-entering Society — and the Voting Booth

Re-entering Society — and the Voting Booth

Following the recent uprising in Baltimore, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan promised that he’d work to reduce crime in the state. He also affirmed that Marylanders who’d been convicted of felonies and done their time should be able to reenter society as free...