Ordinary Heroes of Racial Justice: A History of Christians in Action

by Karen J. Johnson Narrated by Ann Richardson

Overview

Ordinary Heroes of Racial Justice is a beacon of hope for understanding America's complex racial landscape. Through rigorous historical research and compelling narrative storytelling, this book illuminates the past's intersections of Christianity, race, and place, offering profound insights for today's world. Beyond history, Ordinary Heroes of Racial Justice empowers listeners with practical recommendations, encouraging them to rethink and reshape their own communities for justice.



This book explores the important role faith plays in radical justice by looking at the intertwining of faith and racial justice as a driving force throughout history; examining faith communities who served as catalysts for social change by championing equality and justice; exploring teachings that inspired advocates to confront systemic racism and propagate the message of love, acceptance, and unity; and studying key figures that used faith as a foundation to fuel their activism for civil rights.



Whether you're a scholar, teacher, activist, or avid reader of US history, Ordinary Heroes of Racial Justice will enrich your understanding and inspire action as you uncover the stories of those who dared to be different for the greater good and joined the pursuit of justice.

Editorial Reviews

Booklist Review

"With its lively narrative and discussions of racial justice, readers interested in church history and civil-rights movements will find this volume appealing."

Bren Dubay

"A book for such a time as this. From the opening sentence—'Race has mattered throughout American and American church history, and it continues to shape our lives in ways we may not even see'—Karen Johnson shines a light on this truth through the stories of twentieth-century Christians who humbly lived as though race matters. Here at Koinonia Farm, we are grateful that Karen lived among us for a time, absorbing the spirit of our community and Clarence Jordan's witness. She chose him as one of her ordinary heroes, writing, 'He insisted that faithful Christian witness demanded that White Christians share spiritual, social, and economic fellowship as equals with all Christians—including Black ones.' Karen echoes Saint Benedict in insisting that this call must come through all humility. Read this book—a humble demand."

Heath W. Carter

"In this bewildering moment for church and society, Karen Johnson's book is not just timely but a breath of fresh air. With all the care of a great historian and all the wisdom of a committed believer, she recounts true stories about imperfect people who nevertheless did the small faithful thing right in front of them—and to remarkable effect. Readers will find here not only a trustworthy window into the past but also sparks of inspiration toward a more faithful future."

Publishers Weekly Review

"Readers will be edified and inspired."

Scottye Holloway

"Ordinary Heroes of Racial Justice is an extraordinary recounting of pain-filled history. This thought provoking, self-revealing, challenging book chronicles a beautiful and painful time in history that is well worth your time to read, if you are interested in investigating whether you may be on the right side of history today in 2025. This book can potentially lead you to a deeper understanding of those around you and of Christ and our living a disciple's life."

Foreword Reviews

"Ordinary Heroes of Racial Justice is a meticulous history of the roots of racial inequality that highlights little-known Christians who worked for change."

Product Details

BN ID:	2940194505760
Publisher:	EChristian, Inc.
Publication date:	07/29/2025
Edition description:	Unabridged

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