Why we kneel and how we rise
This month on National Prison Radio we’re broadcasting ‘Why We Kneel, How We Rise’ by Michael Holding on New Chapters in association with the National Literacy Trust. The book is a highly acclaimed Sunday Times bestseller and won the William Hill, The Times and The Sunday Times Sports Book of the Year 2021.
The author, Michael Holding, is a Jamaican former cricket player who played for the West Indies cricket team. Nicknamed ‘Whispering Death’, he was one of the fastest bowlers of all time. After retiring in 1987, Holding had a successful broadcasting career working as a television sports commentator for over 30 years.
Why We Kneel, How We Rise is his book about racism in sport and society. The book came about after Holding delivered a passionate speech during a rain delay in England’s cricket test match against the West Indies in July 2020.
Speaking live on-air Holding shared his own experience of the racism he had suffered and has seen all around him throughout his life. Delivered in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death and the #BlackLivesMatter protests earlier in the year, Holding’s speech was praised across the globe and inspired others to reach out and share their stories with him.
Why We Kneel, How We Rise combines Holding’s own experience of racial abuse along with the stories of some of the most iconic athletes in the world including Usain Bolt, Adam Goodes, Thierry Henry, Michael Johnson, Ibtihaj Muhammad, Makhaya Ntini, Naomi Osaka and Hope Powell.
The book takes readers throughout history to understand racism and explains what it is like to be treated differently just because of the colour of your skin. Holding’s message is ultimately one of hope and he delivers an inspiring message for the future and a vision for change.
Why We Kneel, How We Rise will broadcast on National Prison Radio throughout February on Thursday at midday and 6pm and Sunday at 1pm.
If you’d like to receive a free copy of the book you can write to us at: National Prison Radio, HMP Brixton, London SW2 5XF.
National Prison Radio is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in your cell. You can call us for free on: 0808 123 1234 to share your requests, shoutouts, stories and views.
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