Why are so many White people nervous, embarrassed, guilty, defensive, aggressive, or just plain awkward around people of color?  Facing the White Shadow: How to Tame Your Racism and Become a True Ally to People of Color is a step-by-step guide to recognizing and managing internalized racism. It frees White people to enjoy mutually respectful and authentic relationships with Black people, Indigenous people, and other people of color. No more tensing up when race is discussed. No more embarrassing and harmful microaggressions. No more fear of being called out or cancelled. Coauthored by Dr. Marlene F. Watson, a Black expert on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and Laura Markowitz, a White, award-winning journalist, Facing the White Shadow offers inspiring stories and useful exercises that teach you how to make meaningful changes in your own life so you can realize the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that every person be judged “not by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”

Why are so many African Americans unhappy in their relationships, in their families and in their own bodies? Facing the Black Shadow is an intimate look at the ways black people struggle against the pervasive belief in Black inferiority – the “Black shadow.” This groundbreaking book offers a new way to challenge that belief and move from self-blame and self-hate to understanding and empowerment. Written by Dr. Marlene F. Watson, one of the country’s foremost African American couple and family therapists, Facing the Black Shadow is filled with memorable stories and examples from her therapy practice and her own personal journey. Readers will find practical advice, step-by-step exercises and inspiration to transform their relationship to their own Black shadows and find happiness, connection and healing.