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From journalist and New York Times bestselling author Charles Blow comes a powerful manifesto and call to action for Black Americans to amass political power and fight white supremacy.

Race, as we have come to understand it, is a fiction; but, racism, as we have come to live it, is a fact. The point here is not to impose a new racial hierarchy, but to remove an existing one. After centuries of waiting for white majorities to overturn white supremacy, it seems to me that it has fallen to Black people to do it themselves.

Acclaimed columnist and author Charles Blow never wanted to write a “race book.” But as violence against Black people—both physical and psychological—seemed only to increase in recent years, culminating in the historical pandemic and protests of the summer of 2020, he felt compelled to write a new story for Black Americans. He envisioned a succinct, counterintuitive, and impassioned corrective to the myths that have for too long governed our thinking about race and geography in America. Drawing on both political observations and personal experience as a Black son of the South, Charles set out to offer a call to action by which Black people can finally achieve equality, on their own terms.

So what will it take to make lasting change when small steps have so frequently failed? It’s going to take an unprecedented shift in power. The Devil You Know is a groundbreaking manifesto, proposing nothing short of the most audacious power play by Black people in the history of this country. This book is a grand exhortation to generations of a people, offering a road map to true and lasting freedom.

"The Devil You Know: A Black Power Manifesto" by Charles M. Blow is a compelling and thought-provoking book delving into the complexities of race, power, and systemic oppression in American society. Blow, a renowned journalist and columnist for The New York Times, deftly weaves his personal experiences, historical context, and incisive analysis to present a stark yet inspiring vision for change in the pursuit of racial justice.

Unveiling the Devil: Blow confronts the insidious nature of white supremacy, exposing how it permeates every aspect of American life—from the criminal justice system to healthcare, education, housing, and more. He argues that the "devil" is not merely an abstract concept but a tangible force that has historically and continues to oppress Black Americans.

Reclaiming Power: Drawing on the rich legacy of Black resistance, Blow proposes a path forward rooted in Black power. He emphasizes the importance of unity and collective action, advocating for a transformative agenda that addresses systemic inequities, invests in Black communities, and challenges the status quo. Blow believes that true progress lies in empowering Black Americans to shape their own destiny and dismantle oppressive structures.

Personal Reflections: "The Devil You Know" is deeply personal for Blow. He candidly shares his experiences growing up in a segregated Louisiana town, confronting racism in education, and navigating the challenges of being a Black man in corporate America. These personal anecdotes underscore the urgency of addressing racial injustice and provide a poignant lens through which to understand the broader social dynamics at play.

A Call to Action: Blow's book serves as a powerful call to action. He urges readers to engage in difficult conversations, confront their own biases, and demand accountability for systemic racism. "The Devil You Know" is a crucial text that challenges us to confront the ugly truths of our past and present and to work towards a more just and equitable future for all.

With eloquence, passion, and a profound understanding of history, Charles M. Blow presents a compelling manifesto that demands attention. "The Devil You Know" is an essential read for anyone concerned about racial justice and the struggle for a better society.