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Unbought and Unbossed( Expanded 40th Anniversary Edition)[UNBOUGHT & UNBOSSED 40/E][Paperback]
Unbought and Unbossed( Expanded 40th Anniversary Edition) <> Paperback <> ShirleyChisholm <> TakeRootMedia
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First published October 1, 1970
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March 25, 2016
"One bill that I introduced should become law in every state, but unfortunately it did not succeed even in New York. It would have made it mandatory for policemen to successfully complete courses in civil rights, civil liberties, minority problems, and race relations before they are appointed to a police department." Shirley Chisholm, 1970.
February 26, 2013
A well-crafted memoir about a stellar and abstemious political figure who actually gasp wanted to do her job, i.e.- uncompromisingly serve her constituents to the best of her ability without resorting to the dirty, ineffectual, time-wasting tactics of her counterparts. Not only was this an autobiography, it was a critical exposé of the sociopolitical problems that she encountered. “Unbought and Unbossed” didn't limit itself to only issues surrounding a “Black female" in a profession dominated by White males. It demonstrably tackled deeper social, political and economical issues as well: gerrymandering; legality and morality of abortions; paying for an unnecessary war abroad without properly attending to domestic issues; sexism; equal access to education; the seniority system of Congress. Heck, Chisolm's autobio even served as a Government 101 refresher by explaining political processes and terms. By overcoming a web of racial animosities, unwarranted prejudices, and stereotypes based on her sex, Chisolm proved to be instrumental in revealing the damning flaws of American government and society. Furthermore, Chisolm revealed the popular tendency for elected leaders, Republican and Democratic alike, to fail the very people that elected them.
It is hopeful that many of the plights described in her book are not as frequent in society as they once were. I emphasize that many strides have been made in the realms of racial and sexual equality, government transparency, and education. But there’s much to be done. While many think that the racially subversive ideologies of Chisolm's time are deemed antediluvian, it's simply not true. We have only to look to current events, the failings of inner-city schools, the lack of educated minorities, and an overwhelmingly increasing number of Black youth imprisoned. Socio-politically-speaking, the issue of "race" has become a desensitized issue (I'm looking at you Ann Coulter) that reeks of condescension and ignorance. Women’s rights are still in the hands of men lacking alacrity to let women decide what’s best for their own bodies. The issues of the impoverished and other domestic concerns have taken a backseat to global affairs while most of our Congressmen enjoy the perks of their jobs and do zilch to help the common man. Additionally, the influences of "political machines and clubs" are still running amok in the forms of patronage, coalition politics, political posturing, catering to special interest groups, and unaccountability.
Bravo for Chisolm's boldness and profundity. Race-relations, women's rights, inner-city education, war on poverty et cetera, are all uncomfortable and hot-button topics that need to be addressed head-on. I encourage all -regardless of race, creed, age, color, sex, national origin, or religion - to give this book a read and jump start meaningful dialogues. Here are some of the essential themes and quotes I picked up on in “Unbought and Unbossed” (hint: there’s just too many gems):
1. Women's Rights
“It is true that women have seldom been aggressive in demanding their rights and so have cooperated in their own enslavement. This was true of the black population for many years. They submitted to oppression, and even condoned it. But women are becoming aware, as blacks did, that they can have equal treatment if they will fight for it, and they are starting to organize. To do it, they will have to dare the sanctions that society imposes on anyone who breaks with its traditions,” (Chapter 15).
2. Understanding the Game of Politics
“Political organizations are formed to keep the powerful in power. Their first rule is “Don’t rock the boat,”” (Chapter 4).
“…My present attitude toward politics as it is practiced in the United States: it is a beautiful fraud that has been imposed on the people for years, whose practitioners exchange gilded promises for the most valuable thing their victims own, their votes. And who benefits most? The lawyers,” (Chapter 4)
“The rules of the political game are designed to make it possible for men in power to control the actions of their supporters and stay there. If they can’t control someone, they are disturbed. It is a threat to their security,” (Chapter 6).
“There is little place in the political scheme of things for an independent, creative personality, for a fighter. Anyone who takes that role must pay a price,” (Chapter 6).
3. The Lackadaisical Attitude of Congress
“Congress seemed drugged and inert most of the time. Even when the problems it ignores build up to crises and erupt in strikes, riots and demonstrations, it is not moved. Its idea of meeting a problem is to hold hearings or, in extreme cases, to appoint a commission,” (Chapter 10).
“Who is it that Congress represents? Would things be different if citizens were more highly organized and better able to articulate and emphasize their desires? This is a serious problem that has to be solved if the democratic process is going to work in a nation as large and complex as ours. As it is now, Congress is just making believe. It is going through motions to make the votes think a democratic process is going on,” (Chapter 10).
4. Just What Exactly do the Negroes Want?
An audience member asked Chisolm: “What do you Negroes want now? You all aren’t doing too bad. In fact, you’re doing a lot better than some of the white people.”
“My God, what do we want? What does any human being want? Take away an accident of pigmentation of a thin layer of our outer skin and there is no difference between me and anyone else. All we want is for that trivial difference to make no difference. What can I say to a man who asks that? All I can do is try to explain to him why he asks the question. You have looked at us for years as different from you that you may never see us really. You don’t understand because you think of us as second-class humans. We have been passive and accommodating through so many years of your insults and delays that you think the way things used to be is normal. When the good-natured, spiritual-singing boys and girls rise up against the white man and demand to be treated like he is, you are bewildered. All we want is what you want, no less and no more,” (Chapter 13).
4. Lessons for All
Many of Shirley’s lessons can be applied to all Americans. In a pervasive culture of political gridlock, this book reads like a call to arms. Patience and trust in our elected officials has seemed to get no results for the everyday joe. “From the beginning I felt that there were only two ways to create change for black people in this country – either politically or by opened armed revolution. Malcolm defined it succinctly – the ballot or the bullet. Since I believe that human life is uniquely valuable and important, for me the choice had to be the creative use of the ballot. I still believe I was right. I hope America never succeeds in changing my mind,” (end of Chapter 13).
5. Protecting the Right to be Human and to Be Heard
“In the end, anti-black, anti-female, and all forms of discrimination are equivalent to the same thing – anti-humanism,” (Chapter 15).
“Until a problem reaches their doorsteps, they’re not going to understand. They won’t become involved in economic or political change until something brings the seriousness of the situation home to them. Until they are threatened, why should they change a system that has been fairly beneficial for a fairly large number of people? It is going to have to the have-nots – the blacks, browns, reds, yellows, and whites who do not share in the good life that most Americans lead – who somehow arouse the conscience of the nation and thus create a conscience in the Congress,” (Chapter 10).
It is hopeful that many of the plights described in her book are not as frequent in society as they once were. I emphasize that many strides have been made in the realms of racial and sexual equality, government transparency, and education. But there’s much to be done. While many think that the racially subversive ideologies of Chisolm's time are deemed antediluvian, it's simply not true. We have only to look to current events, the failings of inner-city schools, the lack of educated minorities, and an overwhelmingly increasing number of Black youth imprisoned. Socio-politically-speaking, the issue of "race" has become a desensitized issue (I'm looking at you Ann Coulter) that reeks of condescension and ignorance. Women’s rights are still in the hands of men lacking alacrity to let women decide what’s best for their own bodies. The issues of the impoverished and other domestic concerns have taken a backseat to global affairs while most of our Congressmen enjoy the perks of their jobs and do zilch to help the common man. Additionally, the influences of "political machines and clubs" are still running amok in the forms of patronage, coalition politics, political posturing, catering to special interest groups, and unaccountability.
Bravo for Chisolm's boldness and profundity. Race-relations, women's rights, inner-city education, war on poverty et cetera, are all uncomfortable and hot-button topics that need to be addressed head-on. I encourage all -regardless of race, creed, age, color, sex, national origin, or religion - to give this book a read and jump start meaningful dialogues. Here are some of the essential themes and quotes I picked up on in “Unbought and Unbossed” (hint: there’s just too many gems):
1. Women's Rights
“It is true that women have seldom been aggressive in demanding their rights and so have cooperated in their own enslavement. This was true of the black population for many years. They submitted to oppression, and even condoned it. But women are becoming aware, as blacks did, that they can have equal treatment if they will fight for it, and they are starting to organize. To do it, they will have to dare the sanctions that society imposes on anyone who breaks with its traditions,” (Chapter 15).
2. Understanding the Game of Politics
“Political organizations are formed to keep the powerful in power. Their first rule is “Don’t rock the boat,”” (Chapter 4).
“…My present attitude toward politics as it is practiced in the United States: it is a beautiful fraud that has been imposed on the people for years, whose practitioners exchange gilded promises for the most valuable thing their victims own, their votes. And who benefits most? The lawyers,” (Chapter 4)
“The rules of the political game are designed to make it possible for men in power to control the actions of their supporters and stay there. If they can’t control someone, they are disturbed. It is a threat to their security,” (Chapter 6).
“There is little place in the political scheme of things for an independent, creative personality, for a fighter. Anyone who takes that role must pay a price,” (Chapter 6).
3. The Lackadaisical Attitude of Congress
“Congress seemed drugged and inert most of the time. Even when the problems it ignores build up to crises and erupt in strikes, riots and demonstrations, it is not moved. Its idea of meeting a problem is to hold hearings or, in extreme cases, to appoint a commission,” (Chapter 10).
“Who is it that Congress represents? Would things be different if citizens were more highly organized and better able to articulate and emphasize their desires? This is a serious problem that has to be solved if the democratic process is going to work in a nation as large and complex as ours. As it is now, Congress is just making believe. It is going through motions to make the votes think a democratic process is going on,” (Chapter 10).
4. Just What Exactly do the Negroes Want?
An audience member asked Chisolm: “What do you Negroes want now? You all aren’t doing too bad. In fact, you’re doing a lot better than some of the white people.”
“My God, what do we want? What does any human being want? Take away an accident of pigmentation of a thin layer of our outer skin and there is no difference between me and anyone else. All we want is for that trivial difference to make no difference. What can I say to a man who asks that? All I can do is try to explain to him why he asks the question. You have looked at us for years as different from you that you may never see us really. You don’t understand because you think of us as second-class humans. We have been passive and accommodating through so many years of your insults and delays that you think the way things used to be is normal. When the good-natured, spiritual-singing boys and girls rise up against the white man and demand to be treated like he is, you are bewildered. All we want is what you want, no less and no more,” (Chapter 13).
4. Lessons for All
Many of Shirley’s lessons can be applied to all Americans. In a pervasive culture of political gridlock, this book reads like a call to arms. Patience and trust in our elected officials has seemed to get no results for the everyday joe. “From the beginning I felt that there were only two ways to create change for black people in this country – either politically or by opened armed revolution. Malcolm defined it succinctly – the ballot or the bullet. Since I believe that human life is uniquely valuable and important, for me the choice had to be the creative use of the ballot. I still believe I was right. I hope America never succeeds in changing my mind,” (end of Chapter 13).
5. Protecting the Right to be Human and to Be Heard
“In the end, anti-black, anti-female, and all forms of discrimination are equivalent to the same thing – anti-humanism,” (Chapter 15).
“Until a problem reaches their doorsteps, they’re not going to understand. They won’t become involved in economic or political change until something brings the seriousness of the situation home to them. Until they are threatened, why should they change a system that has been fairly beneficial for a fairly large number of people? It is going to have to the have-nots – the blacks, browns, reds, yellows, and whites who do not share in the good life that most Americans lead – who somehow arouse the conscience of the nation and thus create a conscience in the Congress,” (Chapter 10).
November 16, 2014
When I talk to people about Shirley Chisholm I am surprised how many people do not remember her. She was a trailblazer in the truest sense of the word. She radiated qualities of tenacity, passion, and confidence.
March 5, 2017
Though the term has been carelessly tossed around over the past couple years, Shirley Chisholm embodied the definition of "political outsider". A regular, Black woman schoolteacher from Brooklyn, Chisholm knew that her very presence ran counter to the political agendas within both New York & national politics, but she gathered the guts to take them to task anyways. Chisholm understood how to run a real grassroots political campaign, standing firm in her decision to be a voice for the most disenfranchised, even when - no, *especially* when it meant possible political suicide. With a keen and knowing eye, Shirley studied the ways of local and national politics in order to work both within and around their confines, to do as much work for her people as possible.
Unbought & Unbossed is quite honestly a timeless read. Shirley Chisholm's struggles in Washington under the Nixon administration provides a blueprint for working within politics today. It conjures up the old adage: the more things change, the more they stay the same. And there is much to be learned from a true political outsider's foray into the mouth of an old and unyielding political beast. Chisholm is brutally honest about the shortcomings of American politics, from the unwillingness of the old guard to yield power, to the carelessness and nauseating misbehaviors of so-called representatives in Congress. Chisholm identifies and calls out the Old Boy's club for what it is, and makes it clear that true change will come not from our local govts or Washington, but from the collective efforts of grassroots movements made up of a coalition of the disenfranchised.
It's a shame how little we discuss Shirley Chisholm's brave and tenacious political career; I admit that I didn't know much more about her than her given moniker of "first woman to run for President". It's a shame - and a testament to the strength of this nation's enduring sociopolitical structure - because that is precisely how she did *not* want to be remembered. I urge everyone to read her own words and take the time to know Shirley Chisholm the woman, the Black woman, the citizen, the insistent voice of the downtrodden and discarded. For sure, you'll find more bravery within these pages than can be found in most political spaces today. Shirley Chisholm, an underacknowledged catalyst for change, is a true unsung American hero whose use of agency, tenacity and determined, progressive action should serve as an inspiration for us all.
Unbought & Unbossed is quite honestly a timeless read. Shirley Chisholm's struggles in Washington under the Nixon administration provides a blueprint for working within politics today. It conjures up the old adage: the more things change, the more they stay the same. And there is much to be learned from a true political outsider's foray into the mouth of an old and unyielding political beast. Chisholm is brutally honest about the shortcomings of American politics, from the unwillingness of the old guard to yield power, to the carelessness and nauseating misbehaviors of so-called representatives in Congress. Chisholm identifies and calls out the Old Boy's club for what it is, and makes it clear that true change will come not from our local govts or Washington, but from the collective efforts of grassroots movements made up of a coalition of the disenfranchised.
It's a shame how little we discuss Shirley Chisholm's brave and tenacious political career; I admit that I didn't know much more about her than her given moniker of "first woman to run for President". It's a shame - and a testament to the strength of this nation's enduring sociopolitical structure - because that is precisely how she did *not* want to be remembered. I urge everyone to read her own words and take the time to know Shirley Chisholm the woman, the Black woman, the citizen, the insistent voice of the downtrodden and discarded. For sure, you'll find more bravery within these pages than can be found in most political spaces today. Shirley Chisholm, an underacknowledged catalyst for change, is a true unsung American hero whose use of agency, tenacity and determined, progressive action should serve as an inspiration for us all.
February 11, 2019
This book is partly about Congresswoman Chisholm's career, but it is moreso a very in-depth look at the inner workings of our government and how and why it operates--and how she tried to work within it to get things done for her people.
I worked on the hill as a computer installer (during the Lewinski scandal) and saw some of the things she spoke on first hand, and it is sad to see that nothing changed from when she wrote this book.
A great book, and well worth your time to read to understand how our government works, but isn't really a memoir (in my opinion) of her life, thus why I gave it four stars and not five.
I worked on the hill as a computer installer (during the Lewinski scandal) and saw some of the things she spoke on first hand, and it is sad to see that nothing changed from when she wrote this book.
A great book, and well worth your time to read to understand how our government works, but isn't really a memoir (in my opinion) of her life, thus why I gave it four stars and not five.
April 22, 2023
I can’t remember why I got this but when it was both Black History Month and #FebruarySheWrote at the same time and then Women’s History Month in March, I thought it was the perfect book to pull off the shelf and start.
While I enjoyed some chapters more than others, overall it was a really interesting book to read. It was at once a really discouraging view into the state of politics but also somewhat hopeful at the same time because there are still some people that want to do the right thing. Sadly, it seems that’s the minority. It was discomforting to read about how many people cared more about preserving the status quo and their position within it than actually try to do something good with their position. It was eerie how familiar some of the things sounded, as if they were happening right now rather than that long ago.
I don’t read political memoirs often because I struggle to stay focused on them often times as it’s not a topic I enjoy hearing or reading about. So often they just leave me even more disappointed with the state of things. But this one did make me wonder whether I should try a couple more after all.
While I enjoyed some chapters more than others, overall it was a really interesting book to read. It was at once a really discouraging view into the state of politics but also somewhat hopeful at the same time because there are still some people that want to do the right thing. Sadly, it seems that’s the minority. It was discomforting to read about how many people cared more about preserving the status quo and their position within it than actually try to do something good with their position. It was eerie how familiar some of the things sounded, as if they were happening right now rather than that long ago.
I don’t read political memoirs often because I struggle to stay focused on them often times as it’s not a topic I enjoy hearing or reading about. So often they just leave me even more disappointed with the state of things. But this one did make me wonder whether I should try a couple more after all.
January 23, 2015
Everyone should read this book. Especially if you're as pissed off as I am about the way things have gone. The current state of things in this country are a mess and Ms. Chisholm saw it all from a distance. I think there's still hope. But educating ourselves it the first step forward.
November 3, 2016
Compelling read. So much of what she expresses in this book, written over four decades ago, is still pertinent. However, there are some passages that clearly define her as a prophet. I think she would be extremely proud of how far we've come but as she says in her closing paragraph,"There must be a new coalition of all Americans - black, white, red, yellow, and brown, rich and poor - who are no longer willing to allow their rights as human beings to be infringed upon by anyone else, for any reason."
November 17, 2018
A Voice For Our Times
I came to this book with a cursory knowledge of Ms. Chisholm having gone to Brooklyn College, lived in Brooklyn for 22 years, and read a lot of political history. But what I discovered blew me away. Shirley Chisholm was a brilliant, passionate, nearly clairvoyant woman/politician. She fought for her place at the table with grit and grace and this book is a blueprint for how we can fight for our own seat in these troubling times. Simply wonderful. Read it and then get ready to rumble!
I came to this book with a cursory knowledge of Ms. Chisholm having gone to Brooklyn College, lived in Brooklyn for 22 years, and read a lot of political history. But what I discovered blew me away. Shirley Chisholm was a brilliant, passionate, nearly clairvoyant woman/politician. She fought for her place at the table with grit and grace and this book is a blueprint for how we can fight for our own seat in these troubling times. Simply wonderful. Read it and then get ready to rumble!
December 27, 2019
“One question bothers me a lot: Who’s listening to me? Some of the time, I feel dishearteningly small and futile. It’s as if I’m facing a seamless brick wall, as if most people are deaf to what I try to say. It seems so clear to me what’s wrong with the whole system. Why isn’t it clear to most others?”
Love love loved this book & Shirley Chisholm. Incredibly inspiring & a good reminder to keep fighting for what you believe in. READ THIS BOOK!
Love love loved this book & Shirley Chisholm. Incredibly inspiring & a good reminder to keep fighting for what you believe in. READ THIS BOOK!
May 16, 2018
Crazy how I had to keep reminding myself that this wasn't current politics.
July 3, 2024
Absolutely loved this memoir. Shirley Chisholm is a name that I've been hearing for quite a while from other thinkers and writers who found her to be an inspiration to them - and I can see why. She was badass.
This was a very short book, under 200 pages, and yet, it covered such a huge span of her life and early influences and upbringing, into her education and career, it was really shocking how much she packed into this tiny volume. She was clearly a woman who got to the point and got things done and didn't waste a lot of time on nonsense.
Determined, smart, resilient, resourceful, and truly upstanding ethically, I wish we had quite a few more of her. We could use people like her in the political situation that we're currently in.
This was a very short book, under 200 pages, and yet, it covered such a huge span of her life and early influences and upbringing, into her education and career, it was really shocking how much she packed into this tiny volume. She was clearly a woman who got to the point and got things done and didn't waste a lot of time on nonsense.
Determined, smart, resilient, resourceful, and truly upstanding ethically, I wish we had quite a few more of her. We could use people like her in the political situation that we're currently in.
March 15, 2024
Fabulous. No one writes the rules for you. If I acted on my convictions in the way Shirley did, I would be a thousand times a better person.
April 15, 2024
I'm sorry I never got to cast a vote for her.
December 10, 2022
Can’t believe my OG review for this ain’t post. I guess I will say this, I understand why we don’t know as much about her as we should they been silencing that woman from day 1 but her commitment and tenacity in fighting for the most underserved is so inspiring and admirable and I HIGHLY recommend anyone interested in knowing how a real baddie was doing the thing at one of the most difficult times for Black women in the 20th century and was doing so with such grace, talent and skill.
November 17, 2024
Iconic!!
March 6, 2018
Shirley Chisholm was one of our nation's most spectacular leaders, and if all of Congress followed her philosophy of truly working for the people and living with us, we'd be in a better place. I struggle with biographies that are meandering, and I deeply love that she gets to the point. The book's pace is fast and its tone is inspiring.
December 5, 2017
Shirley Chisholm is the truest and bravest icon to me. She is such a beacon of hope and light for women. I couldn't uphold this person higher, if I tried. What a powerful read. #Respect
November 23, 2014
Pioneer, Trailblazer, Inspiring & Classy To The End.
September 25, 2015
A true maverick indeed.. Mrs. Chisholm is such an inspiration.
May 18, 2017
If you are looking for the story of the struggle of women in politics, look no further. Shirley Chisholm lived intersectionality decades before it was a thing.
February 12, 2021
"My God, what do we want? What does any human being want? Take away an accident of pigmentation of a thin layer of our outer skin and there is no difference between me and anyone else. All we want is for that trivial difference to make no difference. What can I say to a man who asks that? All I can do is try to explain to him why he asks the question. You have looked at us for years as different from you that you may never see us really. You don’t understand because you think of us as second-class humans. We have been passive and accommodating through so many years of your insults and delays that you think the way things used to be is normal. When the good-natured, spiritual-singing boys and girls rise up against the white man and demand to be treated like he is, you are bewildered. All we want is what you want, no less and no more," (Chapter 13).
"We Americans (...) have come to feel that it is our mission to make the world free. We believe that we are the good guys, everywhere, in Vietnam, in Latin America, wherever we go. We believe we are the good guy at home, too. When the Kerner Commission told white America what black America has always known, that prejudice and hatred built the nation’s slums, maintains them and profits by them, white America could not believe it. But it is true. Unless we start to fight and defeat the enemies in our own country, poverty and racism, and make our talk of equality and opportunity ring true, we are exposed in the eyes of the world as hypocrites when we talk about making people free," (Chapter 9).
I shouldn't be shocked anymore by how much or who we weren't taught about in school.
"We Americans (...) have come to feel that it is our mission to make the world free. We believe that we are the good guys, everywhere, in Vietnam, in Latin America, wherever we go. We believe we are the good guy at home, too. When the Kerner Commission told white America what black America has always known, that prejudice and hatred built the nation’s slums, maintains them and profits by them, white America could not believe it. But it is true. Unless we start to fight and defeat the enemies in our own country, poverty and racism, and make our talk of equality and opportunity ring true, we are exposed in the eyes of the world as hypocrites when we talk about making people free," (Chapter 9).
I shouldn't be shocked anymore by how much or who we weren't taught about in school.
May 23, 2022
This autobiography was published in 1970, two years before Chisholm's historic run for the presidency. While that candidacy is her primary claim to historic fame, it was actually mostly unknown and unremembered until social media got in the habit of pushing all kinds of erased persons and events into our collective consciousness.
So it's interesting to read Chisholm's main statements, before she was as well-known as she would be, and before her public persona took a turn for the worse as she was considered by the end of her career far less unbossed than her earlier claims (I don't know if the claims have any merit, but the perception existed).
So, here's what the experience is for me: Some moments of fascination when Chisholm describes the politics and attitudes of a place and time I have no experience of; Some moments of "Yeah! You tell it!" when she hits nails on heads, as un-radical as she was, there was a lot that she deeply "got"; Some moments where it seems Chisholm was nothing less than prophetic; And some moments where she is so dated that it's a bit cringe, even though you know as you're reading that it was a truly different time with different discourse; And yet other moments of profound disagreement with fundamental ideas.
But it was an interesting read, especially the first and last few chapters (her personal biography and her analysis of Black and women's politics, respectively). And the five stars are for what she means to me, and how needed biographies of Black women are, even if I didn't faint away in bliss on every page.
So it's interesting to read Chisholm's main statements, before she was as well-known as she would be, and before her public persona took a turn for the worse as she was considered by the end of her career far less unbossed than her earlier claims (I don't know if the claims have any merit, but the perception existed).
So, here's what the experience is for me: Some moments of fascination when Chisholm describes the politics and attitudes of a place and time I have no experience of; Some moments of "Yeah! You tell it!" when she hits nails on heads, as un-radical as she was, there was a lot that she deeply "got"; Some moments where it seems Chisholm was nothing less than prophetic; And some moments where she is so dated that it's a bit cringe, even though you know as you're reading that it was a truly different time with different discourse; And yet other moments of profound disagreement with fundamental ideas.
But it was an interesting read, especially the first and last few chapters (her personal biography and her analysis of Black and women's politics, respectively). And the five stars are for what she means to me, and how needed biographies of Black women are, even if I didn't faint away in bliss on every page.
January 10, 2022
This book...
So, here is truly the only thing about this book that I wish was different- I wish I was reading a book by her once she had already RUN for President. That is not the fault of the book, however, so nothing gets detracted.
This book is thoughtful and thought-provoking. I have made a few comments in my updates about how timely the passages still are, and I find that...disheartening? But, also, not all that unexpected. Because while I'd like to say, "Wow, she was so ahead of her time!" that's not what it is. It's that we are still so BEHIND the times, that a woman born in the 1920s and with a political career in the 1960s&70s said so many things that are still SO relevant. And, my God, I'm so tired. And I've been at the center of exactly ZERO truly difficult fights in my life.
So, end my review by saying that I'm going to read more about black women because they are certainly the future of this country, and let's do everything in our power to continue to dismantle our own internalized racism and misogyny. Because that's what Shirley would want.
(I mean, also, it's obviously the right thing to DO and and important thing to confront, but the first thing sounded cooler).
So, here is truly the only thing about this book that I wish was different- I wish I was reading a book by her once she had already RUN for President. That is not the fault of the book, however, so nothing gets detracted.
This book is thoughtful and thought-provoking. I have made a few comments in my updates about how timely the passages still are, and I find that...disheartening? But, also, not all that unexpected. Because while I'd like to say, "Wow, she was so ahead of her time!" that's not what it is. It's that we are still so BEHIND the times, that a woman born in the 1920s and with a political career in the 1960s&70s said so many things that are still SO relevant. And, my God, I'm so tired. And I've been at the center of exactly ZERO truly difficult fights in my life.
So, end my review by saying that I'm going to read more about black women because they are certainly the future of this country, and let's do everything in our power to continue to dismantle our own internalized racism and misogyny. Because that's what Shirley would want.
(I mean, also, it's obviously the right thing to DO and and important thing to confront, but the first thing sounded cooler).
May 4, 2020
I don't enjoy politics, and I don't enjoy reading about politics, but I do enjoy women's history. Shirley Chisholm published this book in 1970, after recently becoming the first black Congresswoman. How refreshing to read the story of someone who went into politics to help people. Chisholm was not a career politician, but someone who tried to change the system from the inside.
I love her candidness and her clarity. Her conviction. "It seems so clear to me what is wrong with the whole system. Why isn't it clear to most others? The majority of Americans do not want to hear the truth about how their country is ruled and for whom."
I recommend this book even if you only read the sections that are of interest to you. Ms. Chisholm addresses war, racism, sexism, reproduction rights, corruption. All of which is still relevant, unfortunately. Side note, it's fascinating to read over and over in this book terms like "mankind," even used by a self-named radical. Language, at least, has evolved some, and continues to.
Reading this is 2020 is both heartening and disheartening. Thanks for trying, Shirley.
I love her candidness and her clarity. Her conviction. "It seems so clear to me what is wrong with the whole system. Why isn't it clear to most others? The majority of Americans do not want to hear the truth about how their country is ruled and for whom."
I recommend this book even if you only read the sections that are of interest to you. Ms. Chisholm addresses war, racism, sexism, reproduction rights, corruption. All of which is still relevant, unfortunately. Side note, it's fascinating to read over and over in this book terms like "mankind," even used by a self-named radical. Language, at least, has evolved some, and continues to.
Reading this is 2020 is both heartening and disheartening. Thanks for trying, Shirley.
May 10, 2020
Shirley Chisholm is everything & this book chronicles her life from birth to serving as the first Black woman congressperson in US history.
Pros: Chisholm’s voice is clear and her morals are unflinching - she sticks to her principles even when facing misogynoir & rampant discrimination at the hands of colleagues. What stands out to me most, though, is Chisholm’s insistence that she be more than just “the first” - she’s an effective advocate, legislator, and communicator who fights for the rights of children & underserved communities throughout her entire career. We need more folks in Congress like Rep. Chisholm, and her writing style is as clear and concise as her ability to do what’s right.
Cons: I wish this book had been written a few years later as I want to hear about Chisholm’s presidential run, though I know I’ve got to read her second book to get that perspective.
Overall: 5/5 stars. There are some really profound musings in here as Shirley Chisholm questions what her role is & what her legacy will be. I don’t think she’s someone who can be easily simplified & she’s so much more than “the first” - it was nice hearing *her* opinion on *her* legacy in *her* words. Unbought and unbossed is right.
Pros: Chisholm’s voice is clear and her morals are unflinching - she sticks to her principles even when facing misogynoir & rampant discrimination at the hands of colleagues. What stands out to me most, though, is Chisholm’s insistence that she be more than just “the first” - she’s an effective advocate, legislator, and communicator who fights for the rights of children & underserved communities throughout her entire career. We need more folks in Congress like Rep. Chisholm, and her writing style is as clear and concise as her ability to do what’s right.
Cons: I wish this book had been written a few years later as I want to hear about Chisholm’s presidential run, though I know I’ve got to read her second book to get that perspective.
Overall: 5/5 stars. There are some really profound musings in here as Shirley Chisholm questions what her role is & what her legacy will be. I don’t think she’s someone who can be easily simplified & she’s so much more than “the first” - it was nice hearing *her* opinion on *her* legacy in *her* words. Unbought and unbossed is right.
December 31, 2020
If you need a hero, Shirley Chisholm is cape-worthy and lives up to the title of her book, “Unbought and Unbossed.” I wouldn’t have imagined that something written in 1970 would be so timely today, but her writing demonstrates the scary thought that while much has changed in America since she wrote the book, unfortunately many things remain the same. Intersectionality, white privilege, racism, white supremacy, and sexism are all present throughout the telling of her life and career in politics that seem hauntingly familiar to the conversations of today. The transparency in her descriptions of the inner workings of Congress are cringeworthy but open and honest. I would be very interested to hear a modern day politician’s take on her descriptions to see how much, or how little, has changed since her time on the hill. Many thanks to the show Mrs. America for highlighting Chisholm and sparking my interest in learning more about her.
February 16, 2021
Wow. Shirley Chisholm was a force. Truly, she was the real deal. Her integrity, passion, and drive shine through in this autobiography.
Parts of this book gave me shivers at how brutally honest Chisholm is in her recommendations and descriptions of the issues here in the United States, but even more so, I felt sheer frustration at how little has changed. As much as she was a fighter, I’m sure she would have shed a tear if she had known how little this country would have progressed up to 2021, and really, how much it has fallen in recent years. In her memoir, Chisholm gives a diagnosis and offers a plan for treatment, but it’s going to take average Americans realizing how much this country is ailing before it can become healthy.
Parts of this book gave me shivers at how brutally honest Chisholm is in her recommendations and descriptions of the issues here in the United States, but even more so, I felt sheer frustration at how little has changed. As much as she was a fighter, I’m sure she would have shed a tear if she had known how little this country would have progressed up to 2021, and really, how much it has fallen in recent years. In her memoir, Chisholm gives a diagnosis and offers a plan for treatment, but it’s going to take average Americans realizing how much this country is ailing before it can become healthy.
February 25, 2021
A book I feel lucky to have read.
Chisholm talks about her own work, but along the way shares insights on racism, sexism, women's reproductive health, and politics & policy. Published in 1970, many of her thoughts continue to ring true today (for better and for worse).
Though 201 pages, it was a slow read for me, due to a combination of copious highlighting, poor e-book formatting, and wanting to soak up every word.
“I want history to remember me not just as the first Black woman to be elected to Congress, not as the first Black woman to have made a bid for the presidency of the United States, but as a Black woman who lived in the 20th century and dared to be herself. I want to be remembered as a catalyst for change in America.” - Shirley Chisholm
Chisholm talks about her own work, but along the way shares insights on racism, sexism, women's reproductive health, and politics & policy. Published in 1970, many of her thoughts continue to ring true today (for better and for worse).
Though 201 pages, it was a slow read for me, due to a combination of copious highlighting, poor e-book formatting, and wanting to soak up every word.
“I want history to remember me not just as the first Black woman to be elected to Congress, not as the first Black woman to have made a bid for the presidency of the United States, but as a Black woman who lived in the 20th century and dared to be herself. I want to be remembered as a catalyst for change in America.” - Shirley Chisholm
December 2, 2024
I’m embarrassed to admit that this is my first reading of Unbought and Unbossed. It is after Trump’s second election and, like so many others, I’m disheartened and actively looking for reasons to be hopeful. So it’s no surprise that I’m choosing to digest the incomparable Shirley Chisholm’s memoir as inspiring and transformative. Sure, it was written 50 years ago and unfortunately feels like it could have been written yesterday. Some might say that’s discouraging, but patriarchal and racist systems have been in power for centuries. I knew they couldn’t be torn down in weeks, months, even years. I knew the death throes of these corrupt systems would be violent and extreme. I choose to believe that strength lies in the common person and that together we can keep working toward real change. I no longer expect to see that progress, but I know babies and I have hope that we don’t destroy their environment completely and that they will see the change that is coming.
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