Historian Daina Ramey Berry on Injustice: People Are ‘Fed Up'

Dr. Daina Ramey Berry is the Oliver H. Radkey Regents Professor of History and the incoming chairperson of the department at the University of Texas at Austin. She’s an author and a commentator for radio and television. Her latest book, "A Black Woman's History of the United States," was published in 2020 and co-authored by Kali Nicole Gross. Berry is passionate about bringing her historical knowledge to museums and historical societies across the United States as a consultant. In 2016, she provided historical input and served as a technical advisor for the A&E and History Channel remake of "Roots" by Alex Haley. Berry earned undergraduate, graduate and Ph.D. degrees from UCLA.

This is the eleventh part of a series where civil rights leaders, cultural influencers, advocates and critical thinkers explain race relations, societal change, community protest and the political awakening happening in the United States following the tragic deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and other Black Americans. The group, including NAACP President Derrick Johnson and #OscarsSoWhite Creator April Reign, pose their thoughts on race relations during the summer of 2020 and how America may move forward less divided. Join the conversation on social media using #PassTheMic.

Dr. Daina Ramey Berry, Oliver H. Radkey Regents Professor of History, The University of Texas at Austin

Q: How would you describe the civic unrest occurring in America right now?

A: We are witnessing a growing movement of civic unrest among people fed up with racial injustice that has plagued our nation since its founding. African Americans and allies are tired of seeing and learning about the violent deaths in our communities. People are being killed during daily activities: going on a run, shopping at a convenience store, watching television at home, hanging out in their backyards, playing in playgrounds and sleeping in their beds. Yet, law enforcement and ordinary citizens who committed these murders have not been brought to justice in a way that satisfies the masses.