Authors Tom Weiner and Dr. Amilcar Shabazz will offer an engaging discussion of their recent book, In Defiance, which uncovers the untold stories of individuals who risked their lives to fight enslavement and serves as a compelling call for justice and the preservation of history.

This book brings to light the often-suppressed stories of those who risked everything to end enslavement. Profiling 20 Black and white men and women, the book highlights their courage, activism, and unwavering commitment to freedom. Through vivid vignettes, including their own words, their struggles and sacrifices come to life. Amid ongoing efforts to erase history, these stories serve as a powerful corrective—meant to challenge, inspire, and ignite action.

Tom Weiner is a Northampton-based writer, educator, and anti-racist activist, and Dr. Amilcar Shabazz is professor of History and Africana Studies at UMass/Amherst and former president of the National Council for Black Studies. In this special event sponsored by the Holyoke History Room, they will share stories from the book and talk about its making.

Free and open to the public. Recommended for middle school through adult. Light refreshments will be served.

For more information about the book, see: https://www.indefiancebook.com/