The Negro in Chicago

by Chicago Commission on Race Relations

2022 · DigiCat

The Negro in Chicago is a seminal report published by the Chicago Commission on Race Relations in 1922, offering an exhaustive examination of the living conditions and societal dynamics affecting the African American community in Chicago during a pivotal period in American history. This meticulously researched work combines statistical analysis with firsthand accounts, applying a sociological lens to illuminate the injustices faced by African Americans, especially in the wake of the Great Migration and the race riots of 1919. Employing a documentarian style, the text blends empirical data with poignant narratives, revealing the complex interplay of race, economics, and urban life, contextualizing the systemic racism inherent in the fabric of the city. The Chicago Commission on Race Relations, formed in response to the 1919 race riots, was composed of a diverse group of scholars, civic leaders, and activists dedicated to investigating racial issues in Chicago and beyond. Their commitment to social justice and equity, along with their recognition of the critical need for informed policy recommendations based on thorough research, shaped the vision that led to the creation of The Negro in Chicago. This work not only reflects their findings but also their earnest advocacy for reform and racial understanding. This book is essential for historians, sociologists, and anyone interested in the evolution of race relations in America. By delving into The Negro in Chicago, readers gain critical insights into the systemic challenges that persist today, alongside a nuanced understanding of how past injustices continue to shape contemporary society. This report remains a crucial resource for examining the intertwined narratives of race and urban life, making it a highly recommendable read for scholars and general readers alike.