In the wake of Barack Obama's historic presidency, a powerful new civil rights movement emerged from the ashes of hope and the fires of opposition. Award-winning journalist Juan Williams takes us on a compelling journey through this transformative era in "New Prize for These Eyes," shedding light on the heroes, strategies, and defining characteristics of what he calls America's second civil rights movement.
When Barack Obama became the first Black president, many believed America had achieved a post-racial utopia. But reality proved far more complex. As Williams meticulously documents, a white, right-wing backlash was brewing, setting the stage for a volcanic new movement that would erupt across the nation. This movement differs profoundly from its predecessor - where 20th-century activists focused on legal battles and congressional victories, today's fighters are navigating a radically different landscape.
Todays civil rights activists represent the largest, youngest, and most diverse generation in American history - Black, Hispanic, and Asian Americans leading the charge. Social media savvy and deeply connected, they've developed innovative strategies to combat systemic racism and police brutality. Williams examines how these young leaders have transformed protest culture, using technology to organize, document injustice, and amplify their voices in ways previous generations never could.
From Charlottesville to January 6th, Williams traces the arc of this new era, showing how Confederate flags flew in the Capitol while a new movement fought to redefine American democracy. More than just a historical account, "New Prize for These Eyes" offers a forward-looking perspective on where this movement is headed and what it means for America's future.
This book stands as both a document of our time and a call to action, urging readers to confront the progress made while acknowledging the hurdles that remain. For activists, historians, and concerned citizens alike, Williams provides an essential roadmap for understanding one of the most significant social transformations of our era.
