New Books Network Keisha N. Blain, "Without Fear: Black Women and the Making of Human Rights" (W.W. Norton, 2025)
Sep 14, 2025
Keisha N. Blain, a professor of Africana studies at Brown University and author of 'Without Fear,' explores the vital roles Black women have played in human rights activism. She shares inspiring stories of historical figures like Ida B. Wells and lesser-known activists, showcasing their unique struggles and strategies. The conversation highlights the intersection of activism and intellectualism, emphasizing how their work redefined human rights. Blain also discusses the importance of the Black press in amplifying these voices and connecting diverse freedom struggles.
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Black Women Framed Rights Globally
- Black women historically linked domestic civil rights to global human rights and framed freedom as universal.
- Keisha N. Blain argues this perspective made human rights an organizing principle for Black women activists across two centuries.
Book Idea Sprouted During Hamer Research
- Keisha Blain began conceiving this book around 2019 while writing about Fannie Lou Hamer.
- She opened a new project file and developed ideas on Black women and human rights alongside other work.
2020 Catalyzed The Project
- The 2020 moment and George Floyd's killing accelerated Blain's decision to write the book.
- She saw renewed interest in Black women's leadership and wanted to show historical continuity rather than novelty.
