The Struggle for Change

"A Black-majority city with a history of the most severe segregation and inequity, Richmond is still grappling with this legacy as it moves into the twenty-first century. Marvin Chiles provides a unique take on Richmond's racial politics since the civil rights era by demonstrating that the city's current racial disparities in economic mobility, housing, and public education actually represent the unintended consequences of Richmond's racial reconciliation measures. Weaving municipal politics together with grassroots efforts and examining the work and legacies of Richmond's Black leaders, Chiles highlights the urban revitalization and public history efforts meant to overcome racial divides after Jim Crow-efforts that ironically reinforced racial inequality across the city. Compellingly written, this project carries both local and broader regional significance for Richmonders, Virginians, southerners, and all Americans"--