Jacket Description/Back:
Short on money, long on self-confidence and values, Randall Robinson came out of the segregated South to make his mark on the American scoreboard: he graduated from Harvard Law School and began a career as a political activist. But somewhere along the way, Robinson, who went on to become the founder and president of TransAfrica, came to realize that none of his efforts - or the efforts of his fellow African-Americans across the nation - was making a difference. This searing memoir, written by one of today's most distinguished African-American political figures, paints a vivid and compelling picture of racism, not just in the American South or in South Africa, but in such sophisticated, seemingly enlightened communities as Harvard and Washington. Robinson describes his visits to Caribbean and African trouble spots, from the social strife of the western Sahara to South Africa, where he played a significant role in the dismantling of apartheid, to the restoration of democracy in Haiti. Robinson's tireless efforts to end racism worldwide led to the creation of TransAfrica, the first organization to advocate the interests of African and Caribbean peoples. His actions have altered the course of American foreign policy on more than one occasion. And now Randall Robinson has undertaken the extraordinary task of confronting racism within Washington's elite power structure and educating a new generation of political and social leaders.

Publisher Marketing:
In 1977, Robinson founded TransAfrica, the first organization to lobby for the interests of African and Caribbean peoples. TransAfrica was instrumental in the release of Nelson Mandela from prison in South Africa and the reinstatement of President Aristide in Haiti. Robinson's thoughtful and provocative memoir paints a vivid picture of racism in the hallowed halls of Harvard, where he went to law school, as well as the corridors of power in Washington, D.C. He also recounts in fascinating detail his trips to troubled African and Caribbean nations; more than anyone else, he has raised awareness of the problems in those countries.

Publisher Marketing:
In 1977, Randall Robinson founded TransAfrica, the first organization to lobby for the interests of African and Caribbean peoples, and it became the galvanizing force behind the anti-apartheid boycott of South Africa, spearheaded efforts to secure the release of Nelson Mandela, and mobilized the fight to reinstate President Aristide and restore democracy in Haiti.Defending the Spirit" tells the story of Robinson's rise from childhood in the segregated South to his role as a Washington power figure. A stunning and uplifting memoir, it also offers stinging commentary on American policies in Africa and the Caribbean, where racism still plays an unfortunate role. Impassioned, charismatic, and unwavering in his convictions, Robinson emerges as an inspiring and empowering example of a great American leader.A behind-the-scenes look at some of the most significant moments in recent American and world history. Randall Robinson candidly discusses such prominent figures as Jesse Helms, Bob Dole, Charles Rangel, Nelson Mandela, Roger Wilkins, and his famed newscaster brother, Max Robinson.Published to coincide with Black History Month.As an active public speaker, Robinson appears all over America.Randall Robinson is a prominent African-American political figure and a model for the black community