2. Against Injustice African American author who wrote about equality for all men He gave hope to all people who went through struggles of race Baldwin believed in the religion of love Want to be accepted as an African American and homosexual
4. Giovanni’s Room Was the first novel of its type Is about a white male who struggles with homosexuality Baldwin’s publisher told him to “burn the manuscript” Has been criticized by many authors for this novel
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6. Sonny’s Blues A story about discovering who you are, copping with pain, fighting addiction and loving yourself Sonny is a musician who got addicted to heroin and locked in jail Once he got out of jail he gave up drugs and released all his emotion through his music Sonny found who he was and overcame the obstacle that stood in his way
9. Progression for African Americans There has been great progression since Baldwin’s first release in the 1950’s The civil rights movement made it possible for African Americans to be truly equal in America The legal system has progressed so that African Americans may have a fair and speedy trail There is now an African American as President of the United States
10. Gay Progression Giovanni’s Room is a best seller Homosexuals have been given a voice They have formed gay rights groups They have convinced companies to change their code of ethics to fight homophobia in the work place The US military now allows gay marriages
11. James Baldwin is a true American legend and his writings live on today in everyone who deals with a daily struggle. He never limited himself to any genre of writing because he wrote for all people. His driving forces were equality, understanding and love.
