On my many trips to New Orleans, whether to lecture at one of its universities or colleges, to preach from one of its pulpits, or to speak at an empowerment seminar during the annual Essence Music Festival, I have observed color politics at work among black folk. The cruel color code has to be defeated by our love for one another. —Michael Eric Dyson, excerpt from Come Hell or High Water.
Throughout my many trips to New Orleans, whether it's to share knowledge at one of its educational institutions or to spread a message from one of its places of worship, I have seen how racial politics plays out among African Americans. Our love and unity are the means by which we can overcome this color barrier.