Paradox of Loyalty: An African American Response to the War on Terrorism

An incredibly vital incite regarding African American opinion in the post S/11 environment. Great collaboration of work by eminent, interesting & passionate authors.

September 11, 2001 was a day that changed the world forever. Two hijacked planes demolished the twin towers of the World Trade Center, another hit the Pentagon, and a plane full of heroes crashed in a lonely Pennsylvania field. The reality of the number of people who were killed or injured brought home how precious life is. Hearing of the thousands of people who were missing and the heartbreak of their loved ones was enough to devastate anyone. From that day forward, the world mourned the loss caused by the horrific acts of the terrorists.In the days following the tragedy there were endless perspectives and commentaries offered, but the one that was not fully represented was that of African Americans. In THE PARADOX OF LOYALTY: AN AFRICAN AMERICAN RESPONSE TO THE WAR ON TERRORISM, edited by Julianne Malveux and Reginna A. Green, readers are offered a diverse collection of essays which cover every human emotion. The book also speaks of the changes that have been forced upon all Americans due to the September 11 tragedy. From more invasive searches at airports to additional security at major events, everyone is affected.One of the stongest essays in this book is titled "Necessary Changes," by Gail E. Mitchell with Andrea Benton Rushing. Ms. Mitchell is the definition of a survivor. She was blessed to survive both an earthquake and both attacks on the World Trade Center. Ms. Mitchell experienced a wide range of emotions, and the horrible events of September 11 are still with her to this day. Although she is working through her pain, grief, and anxiety, she realizes that she will never be the same person that she was before the terrorist attacks occured.THE PARADOX OF LOYALTY: AN AFRICAN AMERICAN RESPONSE TO THE WAR ON TERRORISM is a book that I recommend that all Americans read, so that everyone's perspective is understood and represented. Reading the stories in this book was an emotional, yet rewarding, experience. I was able to experience other peoples reactions and emotions through this wonderfully written collection of stories.Reviewed by Simone A. Hawksof The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers