New Release – Martyrs for the Movement: Black Bodies, Civil Rights, and #BlackLivesMatter – Edited by Dorinda Rolle, Ph.D.

San Diego, CA – June 24, 2020 – Cognella Academic Publishing is proud to announce the publication of Martyrs for the Movement: Black Bodies, Civil Rights, and #BlackLivesMatter edited by Dorinda Rolle, Ph.D. The book helps students understand the connection between past and current events related to social justice, especially with regard to issues that affect the African American community. The anthology delves into the devaluing of black people’s personhood and agency, challenging readers to think critically and spark dialogue about race in America.

Part One features readings about the American healthcare system and its historic mistreatment of African Americans. In Part Two, students read works pertaining to civil rights, from the words of Martin Luther King, Jr., to the investigative report of the Ferguson Police Department following the death of Michael Brown. Part Three tackles the timely issue of the use of excessive force by law enforcement. Part Four focuses on the rise of the #BlackLivesMatter movement and its connection to past protests. The final part examines the impact of the #BlackLivesMatter movement and emphasizes the importance of continuing the ongoing conversation about race in America.

Timely and critical, Martyrs for the Movement is an excellent resource for courses and programs in African American studies, civil rights, and the criminal justice system.

About the Editor

Dorinda Rolle, Ph.D. is an adjunct professor of African American studies at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Dr. Rolle created this reader and its discussion questions to encourage critical thinking, historical analysis, and meaningful dialogue about social issues affecting African Americans. As a child of the civil rights era, she has lived experience that gives her a unique perspective on the topic. Dr. Rolle’s research interests include social justice issues, women’s leadership, organizational leadership, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. She holds a Ph.D. in organizational leadership from the University of the Incarnate Word, as well as a M.B.A. from Webster University.