Pastor Suggests 5 Books To Learn More About Black History

Rev. Edlen Cowley recommends five books for all to read 

Carter G. Woodson, recognized by many as the “Father of Black History,” believed it was important for African Americans to be mindful of their past as a way to be engaged in dialogue and participate fully in the affairs of the United States.

Woodson authored numerous books on the contributions Blacks made in developing America. In 1926, he founded “Negro History Week” as a way to encourage further study of Black history. He chose the second week of February for the celebration to honor the birthdays of President Abraham Lincoln and civil rights leader Frederick Douglass. Fifty years later, in 1976, the weeklong celebration turned into Black History Month.

Rev. Edlen Cowley, senior pastor at Fellowship UMC in Trophy Club, chairs the North Texas Conference’s Journey Toward Racial Justice. In celebration of Black History Month, he has developed the following list as recommended readings (including brief commentary) so all may become more knowledgeable about Black history – regardless of race.

I'm Black. I'm Christian. I'm Methodist.

Edited by Rudy Rasmus of the Texas Annual Conference. The book is a series of essays from African American United Methodists. The forward is written by Bishop Gregory Palmer of the West Ohio Annual Conference. 

Just As I Am

Author Cicely Tyson just passed away last week. This book is very popular right now. She was a very well-respected actress and leader.

Just Mercy

Author and lawyer Bryan Stevenson's book on mass incarceration was made into the movie starring Michael B. Jordan.

Ambitious Girl

Author Meena Harris is the niece of Vice President Kamala Harris. The book is about the relationship between Kamala Harris and Meena's mother, Maya Harris.

The Miseducation of the Negro

The classic book written by Woodson, the father of “Negro History Week,” which later became Black History Month. Personally, The Miseducation of the Negro is one of my favorite books that I own and re-read from time to time.

Published: Wednesday, February 3, 2021