Uncivil War – Elsie Washington
In this ground breaking book, journalist and former Essence senior editor, Elsie B. Washington, takes a hard but compassionate look at the causes of the conflict between Black women and Black men. Uncivil War: The Struggle Between Black Men and Women offers the most complete analysis of contemporary Black relationships written to date.
Through in-depth interviews with African American therapists, relationship counselors, and married couples who have found the keys to making relationships last, as well as single men and women who are still searching, Uncivil War provides firsthand knowledge of the dynamics of Black relationships. Uncivil War explores the glorious history of Black relationships and marriage from slavery until today.
It profiles relationship “role models” and “villains, ” those high-profile individuals representing the best and the worst in the relationship struggle. In addition, it examines the many factors that make maintaining a healthy relationship so difficult.
These range from economic pressures, racial discrimination, and the declining significance of spirituality and community to the growing dilemma faced by middle-class Black couples torn by the conflicting relationship values found in Afrocentric and Eurocentric culture. Most importantly, Uncivil War serves as a primer for Black men and women who are seeking enriching and loving partnerships. It offers encouragement and practical instruction on how to make your individual relationships joyous, healthy and fulfilling.
