News Summary
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Harold Jackson released his memoir ‘Under the Sun: A Black Journalist’s Journey’ in 2025. The book chronicles his life navigating race and social justice in America, reflecting on systemic issues like economic inequality. Through personal narratives and insights into his career, Jackson’s work continues to inspire dialogue on social equity and the role of the media in societal change.
Birmingham, Alabama – Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist Harold Jackson Reflects on His Journey in New Memoir
In 2025, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Harold Jackson released his memoir titled “Under the Sun: A Black Journalist’s Journey,” chronicling his life and career as a journalist who navigated the complexities of race and social justice in America. Jackson, who previously served as the editorial page editor at The Inquirer, gained national recognition for his work, particularly his 1990 investigative series titled “What They Won’t Tell You About Your Taxes.” This series scrutinized Alabama’s tax structure, highlighting how it disproportionately impacted the poor while benefiting the wealthy, a concern that remains relevant today.
Impact on the Community
Jackson’s career, deeply intertwined with his upbringing in Loveman’s Village, Birmingham, serves as a lens through which local residents can understand ongoing social issues. His memoir offers a reflection not only on his personal experiences but also on the systemic challenges that continue to affect the community, such as economic inequality and racial dynamics. The enduring impact of his early work, which earned The Birmingham News its first Pulitzer Prize, underscores a critical aspect of his narrative: the persistent frustration regarding stagnant tax reforms that leave the marginalized vulnerable.
Policy Implications and Social Justice
In his memoir, Jackson recalls facing obstacles as a Black journalist in a predominantly white industry. He draws on the sociological concept of double consciousness as described by W.E.B. Du Bois, illustrating the unique struggles and perceptions Black individuals endure in America. This perspective resonates with ongoing discussions around race and journalism, particularly as communities advocate for social equity and policy reforms that address systemic disparities. Jackson’s insights offer vital context for understanding how historical injustices shape contemporary social policies.
Expert Insights into Race and Resilience
Experts in sociology and racial discourse point out that Jackson’s commitment to storytelling has been instrumental in bringing awareness to crucial social issues. His emphasis on compassion and understanding over anger highlights a discourse that seeks to bridge divides rather than deepen them. His writing conveys the idea that systematic change can arise from humanizing narratives that connect deeply personal stories with broader societal challenges.
Personal Narratives and Health Awareness
- The memoir delves into Jackson’s emotional journey, particularly surrounding the illness and death of his brother Calvin, who died of AIDS in 1996.
- This personal account sheds light on the stigma surrounding health issues within the Black community and the complexities of familial relationships.
- Jackson’s reflections draw attention to the importance of mental health discussions, especially in communities where silence often reigns.
Continuing the Conversation
Jackson reflects on the lack of significant progress in achieving social equity and tax reform since his initial writings, positioning his work as part of a larger narrative about race and justice in the U.S. His aspiration to evoke change through journalism continues to resonate, providing lessons for future generations of journalists and activists alike.
The release of “Under the Sun” acts as more than just a memoir; it is a call to continued dialogue and analysis on race, equity, and the media’s role in shaping perceptions and policy. The understanding and truth that Jackson pursues aim to foster empathy and collaboration toward a more equitable society.
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Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
