Racing Across the Lines, by Deborah L. Plummer first published in 2004, demonstrates how cross-racial friendships can improve race relations. A robust combination of the author's personal experiences and insights, shared stories, and findings from focus groups she conducted, made the book an instant bestseller. After five successful years it has been revised and updated, and includes a DVD of Plummer presenting the critical strategies and concepts that made the first edition a positive step toward more effective race relations.
"Plummer shares concrete tools to help us navigate the complex arena of authentic racial discourse. She draws us into her narrative through the lens of real individuals, and demonstrates that the true work in racial dialogue is the journey and effort we put into it." --
Mark Swaim-Fox, Director, Cleveland Region, Facing History and Ourselves "The Pilgrim Press"
"Through a series of personal and shared experiences, Plummer suggests that all Americans make a conscious effort to establish new friendships beyond their own racial group, or work even harder to maintain those interracial friendships they already have. If we follow Plummer's advice, we will stop being as 'separate as fingers."
-- The Rev. Marvin A. McMickle, pastor, Antioch Baptist Church; professor, Ashland Theological Seminary "The Pilgrim Press"
"Plummer offers a valuable personal testament to her journeys across America's racial divide. She provides a thoughtful look at the importance of interracial relationships and at the possibilities they offer all of us. For those searching for a path that leads to a brighter, more enlightened tomorrow, Plummer is a most reliable guide."
-- Ellis Cose, author, columnist and contributing editor, Newsweek "The Pilgrim Press"
"Plummer's book is an excellent lesson in reality and reason as we struggle to overcome the evil of racism which is almost omnipotent. It is a book that can be used constructively by youth and adult, individuals, groups and institutions, and I highly recommend it."
-- Rev. Otis Moss, Jr., senior emeritus pastor, Olivet Institutional Baptist Church "The Pilgrim Press"
"What an eye opener! As a white man living and ministering within the Black community for over 20 years, Plummer's observations are quite refreshing. In a world where 'differences' are sometimes considered 'deficiencies,' it is a blessing to see that differences can be highlighted and celebrated."
-- Rev. John S. Breslin, former pastor, St. Ailbe Catholic Church, Chicago "The Pilgrim Press"
"Congratulations, Debbie, on capturing the true essence of diversity and its valued importance."
-- Halle Berry, Academy Award winning actress "The Pilgrim Press"
"This combination memoir/discussion guide is solidly based on Plummer's professional and scholarly understanding of diversity issues. She challenges readers to think beyond the workplace to examine personal relations across racial boundaries as one step toward achieving a just society."
-- Adrienne Lash Jones, emeritus associate professor of African American Studies, Oberlin College "The Pilgrim Press"
