Point of Reckoning: The Fight for Racial Justice at Duke University

Brilliant book. This was a captivating story about the desegregation of Duke University, but it was also a story about the complicated dynamics between students, faculty, and administrators during efforts of social reform. While it will be obvious what the author thinks, for the most part, the facts told the story, and the author shared a thorough account of those facts based on his research.

As our country attempts to have more serious conversations about race, this book is a must-read. By walking us through Duke University’s early steps in desegregation using the words of the students, administrators, trustees, and activists, Point of Reckoning allows the reader to “listen in” to how each perceived and responded to the challenges of creating a community where all could thrive. Learning the intentions and perceptions of actions taken illuminates why making headway is not simply a matter of “just make some tweaks” or even “just talk to each other,” but requires genuine listening and openness to real change. A fascinating read that flows more like a novel than a dry history book, Point of Reckoning keeps the reader wanting to know what comes next and offers insight into how easy it is to keep repeating the past if nothing changes.

Addressing primarily the struggles after Duke desegregated in the 1960’s, the book deconstructs the huge gulf between the university’s expectations and the needs of the students admitted. Culminating in the occupation of the administration building in 1969, this is a case study of an historical period which is echoed in events today. Clear, direct, detailed and highly recommended.

This books adequately captured the history and the dynamics of the first phases of desegregation of Duke University. As an alumnus ('72) much of the behind the scenes details were quite enlightening. The book captures the struggle between the reluctant old guard segregationists and the Black students and their supporters who successfully ushered the university into a progressive national presence.