Imagine shaking off the habit of pinning all hopes on a handful of politicians. That's the core invitation in Eddie S. Glaude Jr.'s We Are the Leaders We Have Been Looking For, based on his riveting Du Bois Lectures at Harvard. As a New York Times bestselling author, Glaude doesn't just critique our political malaise—he lights a path for ordinary folks, especially in Black communities, to step into leadership roles that matter.
Glaude starts with his own disillusionment during the Obama era. The hype around that presidency felt like another round of waiting for a savior, echoing patterns from history. He dives into the lives and words of giants like Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Ella Baker, unpacking how their ideas demand more from us than passive admiration. These aren't dusty lectures; they're alive with urgency, reminding us that true change brews in everyday actions, not just podium speeches.
What sets this book apart is Glaude's raw honesty. He weaves in his family stories, moments of doubt, and evolving views on Black politics. Thinkers like Ralph Waldo Emerson, John Dewey, James Baldwin, Ralph Ellison, and Toni Morrison join the conversation, challenging you to reflect on your own life. It's like sitting with a wise friend over coffee, dissecting how self-improvement isn't selfish—it's the engine of justice.
In turbulent times, this 2024 hardcover feels essential. Whether you're navigating community organizing, voting drives, or personal growth, Glaude's words equip you to contribute meaningfully. Picture discussing these ideas at a book club, sparking debates that linger. Or gifting it to someone questioning their impact—it's a nudge toward agency. At around 250 pages of lyrical prose, it's dense yet accessible, perfect for bedside reading or group study. Ultimately, Glaude argues democracy thrives when we move from the pews to the forefront, owning our power without waiting for permission.
Grab this book and start leading the way you've always known you could.
