Face Forward

Defying the statistics, destroying the stereotypes, this inspiring collection of portraits trumpets the achievements of thirty-nine young black men. This handsome volume combines luminous photographs with intimate interviews of young men leading exemplary lives. Photographer Julian Okwu traveled across the country interviewing teachers and entrepreneurs, lobbyists and poets, ministers and politicians. He found a diverse range of voices, experiences, and attitudes, but all of the men he met shared a concern for the African American male and a hope that future generations would benefit from their work. In a world of negative images, skewed statistics, and racial division, these young men embody an alternative reality and an eloquent argument for optimism. A powerful, timely social document.