Historian’s book talk part of Black History Month celebrations

On Feb. 6, the University of Detroit Mercy will welcome historian Dr. Kidada Williams from Wayne State University for a special lecture as part of campus’ Black History Month celebrations.  

Organized by Dr. Roy Finkenbine, co-chair of the history department, the event will focus on Dr. Williams’ celebrated book, “I Saw Death Coming.” The book, a finalist for the National Book Award for Nonfiction, explores the racial violence endured by African Americans during the Reconstruction era in post-Civil War America.   

The evening begins with an alumni reception at 5:30 p.m., followed by Dr. Williams’ talk at 7:00 p.m. in the university ballroom. After the lecture, there will be a question-and-answer session, offering attendees a chance to delve deeper into the important themes of racial issues explored in the book and their relevance to current racial challenges. Participants are also encouraged to bring copies of the book to sign.   

The goal of this event is to educate attendees about the historical roots of contemporary racial challenges and emphasize the importance of these discussions in today’s society. 

In an interview, Dr. Finkenbine described the lecture’s theme as “the war after the war,” highlighting the ongoing struggle for rights and recognition faced by African Americans.  

“Dr. Williams’ research brings attention to a crucial but often neglected chapter of our history, showing how the fight for equality continued long after the Civil War ended,” he explained.   

This neglected chapter of history is powerfully represented in “I Saw Death Coming” through the 1870-1871 congressional hearings as her primary source, documenting the testimonies of Black victims of post-war violence during Reconstruction. These hearings provide emotional narratives filled with moving firsthand accounts of systemic oppression.  

Dr. Finkenbine describes these hearings as a vital component in understanding the cruelty of Reconstruction.  

“People were forced to flee, hiding in woods for days, and enduring severe beatings,” he said. “Yet, amidst such brutality, there was resistance as families fought to claim their newly afforded rights as American citizens.”  

These themes of resilience and oppression are mirrored in Dr. Williams’ book to help us understand how past struggles are echoed in our present, urging a re-evaluation of how we understand and act upon our history.  

Understanding these historical contexts are viewed as essential for addressing the persistent racial challenges that we face today, as these issues affect not only African Americans but also resonate with the experiences of immigrant families and various ethnic communities.  

“By exploring our past through detailed, personal stories of struggle and triumph, we can begin to dismantle the systemic issues that continue to affect us,” Finkenbine said.  

He emphasized the importance of these discussions for Hispanic, Middle Eastern, Indian, Asian families, and others, noting how past racial violence is mirrored in today’s environment of increased racial tensions and White supremacist violence. By adding to our knowledge through events like these, it can empower communities to push for meaningful societal change, reflecting that the lessons of resilience and resistance from the Reconstruction era are universally applicable.  

For those who cannot attend, the University will host a virtual event on Feb. 18 featuring Etta Fields’ “Combi,” which examines Harriet Tubman’s role during the Civil War. Additionally, a special Valentine’s Day event called “Love Stories from the Underground Railroad” will take place on Feb. 14 at noon, blending African American history with themes of love and bravery.  

Detroit Mercy invites all students, alumni, faculty and friends to join these discussions throughout Black History Month to reflect on our past and inspire our future.