The Covenant

The Covenant with Black America:

What can you do?

Kenneth Bayne

RDG 120: Critical Reading and Thinking

Instructor James Elison

April 2, 2007

The Covenant with an introduction by Tavis Smiley coveys the idea of organizing together as a community to change policies that negatively effect people of color across the country. It reinforces the idea that mobilization instead of stagnation is a powerful tool to trigger our leaders and elected officials to reform the laws that will equalize the playing field for its entire people. The Covenant is a compilation of nonfiction essays from respected professionals and scholars edited by Smiley. These essays focus on the disparities of the nation’s policies ranging from healthcare to education that grossly effect African American people. Tavis Smiley is a well known and respected radio commentator and television show host who addresses controversial racial issues. His most noted efforts is recognized when he hosts his famous national town hall meetings called “the state of the Black Union” or “the state of Black America,” which is usually aired on the C-Span cable network. The Covenant was recognized in March 2006 as #1 New York Times bestseller, which is the first nonfiction book from a black owned publishing company to be listed on this prestigious list.

I chose this book because I believe that America is the most powerful country in the world. Yet, some of its citizens are crying out for help that seem to land on partially deaf ears. I also believe that the voices of many can ignite the way for everyone to have an equal access to rights and privileges in this country. I understand that racism and the effects of slavery have darkened the path for black people to create justifiable lives for themselves. Black history shows the common dictum “we have come along way but still have ways to go” is apparent in this book. The book identifies “common” citizens doing their part...