Emmanuel Acho’s presence continues to grow after announcing a deal with Oprah Winfrey and Macmillan Publishers to bring his video series Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man to print.
According to the press release, two books will be published from Acho, starting with Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man and later Uncomfortable Conversations With a Black Boy geared towards children.
Not only has Acho become a rising sports media star since retiring from the NFL, but he’s recently taken on the role of social activist.
The former NFL linebacker and current FS1 analyst launched his video series Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man June 1, quickly amassing 20 million views as he addresses the questions white Americans are afraid to ask regarding racism.
As white people say, “how can I do better?” with the goal of becoming anti-racist, Acho’s video series has been an educational tool, utilizing communication as a way to bridge our countries racial gap. Now with the support of Oprah, Acho’s conversations will extend beyond social media, and be offered as a book.
“Emmanuel Acho is creating a space to open the aperture for understanding by breaking down fears, frustrations, biases and prejudices week after week,” Oprah said in the press release. “I consider it a privilege to be able to help him keep doing the good work that he has been called to do. I can’t wait until this book is available to everyone who chooses to open their mind and heart to their own uncomfortable conversation.”
Acho said he views the book as having the ability to be passed down from generation to generation, building true change.
“While I’ve been thrilled by the reaction to my video series, I never wanted this to just be a social media moment,” Acho added. “In order to effect true change, these uncomfortable conversations need to transcend the screen—which is why I’m putting them on the page, too. I firmly believe that if you want to go fast, you go alone. But if you want to go far, you go together. I’m honored to have a partner and supporter in Oprah Winfrey and Macmillan Publishers.”
The book will be out Nov. 10, but it’s already available for preorder at UncomfortableConvos.com. The children’s version, Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Boy will be released next spring.
Brandon Contes is a former reporter for BSM, now working for Awful Announcing. You can find him on Twitter @BrandonContes or reach him by email at Brandon.Contes@gmail.com.
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