If They Come in the Morning

Angela Davis's If They Come in the Morning offers a powerful account of her trial and a critical analysis of the U.S. prison system's racial injustices.

In If They Come in the Morning, Angela Davis recounts her experiences during one of the most significant political trials in American history. This classic work opens with a poignant letter from James Baldwin to Davis, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of her incarceration and the broader implications of her case. The book features contributions from notable figures in the Black liberation movement, including George Jackson, Huey P. Newton, Bobby Seale, and Erica Huggins, each adding their perspectives on the systemic injustices faced by political prisoners.

Davis’s narrative goes beyond her personal story; it serves as a critical examination of the U.S. prison system and its impact on black communities. The book delves into the historical context of racial oppression and the role of policing, highlighting how these issues continue to resonate today. Davis argues that the political prisoner embodies the struggles against systemic racism and state violence, making her insights profoundly relevant in contemporary discussions about race and justice.

As the carceral system in the United States has expanded, with an increasing number of black individuals incarcerated, the themes presented in If They Come in the Morning remain urgent. This work not only documents a pivotal moment in history but also challenges readers to confront the ongoing realities of racial injustice and the need for reform within the justice system.