Jemar Tisby

Jemar Tisby is a historian, author, and public speaker who specializes in race, religion, and social justice in American Christianity. He has gained prominence for his work examining the relationship between racism and Christianity in the United States, particularly through his bestselling books "The Color of Compromise" (2019) and "How to Fight Racism" (2021). As the founder and CEO of The Witness Inc., Tisby leads an organization focused on Black Christian perspectives and racial justice advocacy. He holds a Master of Divinity from Reformed Theological Seminary and is currently completing a PhD in History at the University of Mississippi. His writing has appeared in major publications including The Atlantic, The Washington Post, and CNN, where he frequently addresses contemporary racial issues through a historical and religious lens. His work "The Color of Compromise" notably reached The New York Times Best Sellers list and has been widely used in educational settings. Beyond his writing, Tisby co-hosts the Pass The Mic podcast and regularly speaks at universities, conferences, and churches across the United States. He previously served as the president of the Black Christian Collective and has taught history at various institutions including Reformed Theological Seminary and African American Studies at the University of Mississippi.

Readers appreciate Tisby's detailed historical research and clear presentation of racism's intersection with American Christianity. Many note his ability to balance scholarly rigor with accessible writing. On Goodreads, readers frequently mention the comprehensive timeline and specific examples that connect past events to present-day issues. Positive reviews highlight: - Clear documentation of historical facts - Practical action steps for addressing racism - Balance of academic depth with readability Critical reviews focus on: - Claims of political bias in historical interpretation - Disagreements with theological positions - Questions about proposed solutions The Color of Compromise maintains a 4.5/5 rating on Goodreads (24,000+ ratings) and 4.7/5 on Amazon (5,000+ ratings). How to Fight Racism holds a 4.6/5 on Goodreads (1,400+ ratings). One reader writes: "Changed my understanding of church history completely." Another notes: "Well-researched but maintains a clear narrative thread." Critics state: "Too focused on institutional solutions" and "Oversimplifies complex historical events."

The Color of Compromise (2019) A historical examination of the American church's complicity in racism from the colonial period through the present day.

How to Fight Racism (2021) A practical framework for pursuing racial justice based on the ARC model: Awareness, Relationships, and Commitment.

How to Fight Racism Young Reader's Edition (2022) An adapted version of the original text designed for children ages 8-12, explaining racial justice concepts and action steps.

The Color of Compromise Study Guide (2020) A companion workbook to The Color of Compromise featuring discussion questions, historical timelines, and reflection exercises.

How to Fight Racism Video Study (2021) A video curriculum examining racial justice through biblical and historical lenses across twelve sessions.

Austin Channing Brown writes about racial justice and Christianity in America, focusing on her experiences as a Black woman in predominantly white spaces. Her work "I'm Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness" addresses similar themes as Tisby's writings about race and faith.

Michael Eric Dyson examines race relations and Black culture through historical, sociological, and theological lenses. His books analyze systemic racism and the Black church's role in social movements, paralleling Tisby's focus on Christianity's intersection with racial justice.

Lisa Sharon Harper explores faith-based approaches to social justice and racial reconciliation. Her writing connects biblical narratives to contemporary racial issues and emphasizes the church's role in addressing inequality.

James H. Cone developed Black liberation theology and wrote extensively about race and Christianity in America. His work examines how Christian theology relates to the Black experience and the fight against oppression.

Willie James Jennings writes about theology, race, and colonialism from an academic perspective. His books analyze how Christian doctrine has shaped racial hierarchies and explore paths toward reconciliation within Christian communities.