Imani Perry says that the color blue tells the story of her people, reflecting both oppression and resilience, sorrow and hope. In her new book “Black in Blues,” Perry explores the significance of the color in Black American history and culture – from the indigo trade to the blues music tradition – and stitches together histories that connect the color to spirituality, community, resistance and the complexities of identity. Perry joins us.

Guests:

Imani Perry, professor in studies of women, gender and sexuality and in African and African American studies, Harvard University; fellowship recipient, MacArthur and Guggenheim; Her previous book ‘South to America’ won the 2022 National Book Award for Nonfiction.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices