New Release: Because I’m Black, The Story of Jesse Washington by D.W. Duke and Taiwo Fagbohungbe

D.W. Duke, an accomplished California trial attorney and civil rights advocate, has partnered with Taiwo Fagbohungbe, a Nigerian-born scholar of international relations and literature, to release their latest biographical novel, Because I’m Black, The Story of Jesse Washington. Available now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, this powerful work delves into a dark chapter of American history, illuminating themes of systemic racism, justice, and resilience.

The novel brings to life the tragic story of Jesse Washington, a 17-year-old Black sharecropper accused of murdering Lucy Fryer, the wife of his employer, in 1916. Amidst the pervasive racial segregation and discrimination of the time, Jesse was denied fair legal representation and rushed to trial under a presumption of guilt. The novel meticulously reconstructs the events leading up to Jesse’s trial, examining whether he was truly guilty of the crime or a victim of racial prejudice and a flawed justice system.

Central to the narrative is Samuel Palmer Brooks, President of Baylor University, who stood nearly alone in advocating for a fair trial for Jesse Washington. Despite Brooks’ courageous efforts, the novel highlights the systemic barriers that undermined justice and the societal forces that perpetuated racial violence in early 20th-century America.

Drawing inspiration from historical records, Because I’m Black presents a compelling exploration of the factors that shaped Jesse’s fate. Through its vivid storytelling and careful examination of evidence, the book offers readers an opportunity to confront painful truths about racial injustice, both past and present.

“This story needs to be told and acknowledged in order for America to move forward,” the authors assert. “It is only by studying these painful moments in history that we can learn from our mistakes. We need to understand the suffering caused by social injustice so that events like these can be prevented in the future, not just in the United States but globally.”

Duke and Fagbohungbe bring a unique blend of expertise and cultural perspective to their work. Duke, an attorney with extensive experience in civil and human rights, has authored eight books and holds a fifth-degree black belt in Taekwondo. His legal background and passion for justice are evident in the meticulous research and nuanced analysis underpinning the novel.

Fagbohungbe, a scholar with roots in Nigeria and an academic focus on the Atlantic Slave Trade and the Black experience in America, lends a rich cultural and historical perspective. His studies at Adekunle Ajasin University, Lead City University, and Arizona State University inform his writing, offering a depth of understanding that resonates throughout the narrative.

The release of Because I’m Black is especially timely, as conversations about race, justice, and the legacy of systemic oppression continue to shape public discourse. By revisiting the story of Jesse Washington, the authors encourage readers to reflect on how historical injustices have shaped modern society and inspire action toward greater equity and understanding.

The novel appeals to a wide audience, from history enthusiasts seeking to learn more about America’s racial past to readers interested in exploring themes of power, prejudice, and humanity. With its vivid prose and heartfelt storytelling, Because I’m Black is a must-read for those committed to understanding and addressing the enduring impact of racial injustice.

D.W. Duke and Taiwo Fagbohungbe’s collaboration underscores the importance of cross-cultural dialogue in addressing shared global challenges. Their partnership represents a call to action for greater inclusion and recognition of marginalized voices in literature and beyond.

Because I’m Black, The Story of Jesse Washington is available for purchase through Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Join Duke and Fagbohungbe in revisiting history to envision a more just and equitable future.