The Societal Cost of Racism

The Sum of Us: What Racism Costs Everyone and How We Can Prosper Together
by Heather McGhee
Publication Date - February 16, 2021
5 stars

This is a hard-hitting, clearly written and powerful exploration about how the racism inherent in public policy hurts everyone.  Interspersed with personal stories and interviews with interesting individuals, McGhee lays out the issues in a way that demonstrates how racist policy affects the economy and the prosperity and health of everyone.  I will say my reading of this book was one that I won't easily forget as midway through, a mob of white supremists (too easily) stormed the U.S. Capitol Building.  On one hand it brought an immediacy to her words but on the other it took away a bit from the hopefulness she tries to portray in the ending chapter.  I hope there is a turning point soon, and I hope that this book is read as widely as it needs to be.  I received a digital ARC of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.