New Books in Sociology Michael Rosino, "Democracy Is Awkward: Grappling with Racism Inside American Grassroots Political Organizing" (UNC Press, 2025)
Apr 21, 2025
Michael Rosino, an assistant professor at Malloy University, dives into the complex dynamics of grassroots political organizing in America. He discusses how progressive groups often fail to achieve racial equity due to the reluctance of white members to share power. With insights from his ethnographic research, he highlights the paradox of predominantly white organizations advocating for inclusivity. Rosino emphasizes the importance of multiracial coalitions to overcome barriers to inclusion and strengthen grassroots democracy.
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Awkwardness Blocks Progress
- Grassroots progressive groups often fail to resolve racial inequality because they avoid tough conversations.
- Habits and cultural norms create discomfort and inertia, hindering democratic engagement and social change.
In-Depth Ethnographic Research
- Michael Rosino conducted 15-16 months of ethnographic fieldwork in three local chapters of a northeastern progressive grassroots organization.
- He attended events, held 45 interviews, collected documents, and immersed himself as a participant-observer.
White Consensus Limits Inclusion
- Progressive grassroots organizations often display a "white consensus" where leadership and power stay concentrated among white members.
- This happens due to habits prioritizing comfort, familiarity, and maintaining control, which constrains possibilities for racial justice and inclusion.