"Black Like Me" is a non-fiction book written by John Howard Griffin, first published in 1961. The book recounts Griffin's experiences as he darkened his skin using medication and ultraviolet light to live as a black man in the Southern United States. Griffin, a white journalist and activist, underwent this transformation to experience firsthand the racial segregation and discrimination faced by African Americans during the Jim Crow era. During his six-week journey, Griffin traveled through several Southern states, including Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, documenting his encounters with racism, prejudice, and injustice. He faced various forms of discrimination, such as being denied service in restaurants, forced to use segregated facilities, and experiencing verbal and physical abuse. "Black Like Me" provides valuable insights into the harsh realities of racism and segregation in America during the 1950s and early 1960s. Griffin's narrative sheds light on the daily struggles and indignities faced by black Americans, challenging readers to confront the pervasive nature of racial prejudice. The book generated significant attention upon its release and sparked important discussions about race relations in America. It remains a powerful and thought-provoking account of one man's quest to understand the lived experiences of those marginalized by society.
0