Michael Eric Owens’ latest literary work is titled, “YES, I AM, WHO I AM: A New Philosophy of Black Identity. Professor of History.
Laura Gellott sums up this recent work: Owens’ book “is the result of much reading, research, and deep reflection. Part history, part memoir, part meditation, it is ultimately a hope filled summons to Blacks to embrace and claim their full identity as Americans. Michael Owens’ critique of ‘African American’ as identity is sure to provoke, and to raise further questions as the reader follows Owens’ journey of discovery towards a usable Black identity for contemporary America.”
Born and raised in the inner-city of Milwaukee, Michael Owens experienced first hand the many challenges facing minorities today. Following a successful career in the United States Navy where he achieved Sailor of the Year honors, he attended the University of Wisconsin-Parkside earning degrees in History and Political Science, as well as the Outstanding Graduate Award. He received his Master of Library & Information Science from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
Heather Frederick, Professor of Psychology, describes Owens “as an agent of truth, who confronts the Black identity crisis with courage and dignity. YES, I AM WHO I AM is a thoughtful exposé that ventures beyond a historical account of the Black experience in America to offer a solution; a timely read for anyone who calls themselves an American.”
Owens is the Manager of Library Operations at the prestigious Ralph Ellison Library in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He is also a distinguished scholar, writer, speaker, and activist who has used his voice and literary passion to illuminate the untold stories of Black America. Owens’ charisma and eloquence make him a leading voice on race relations in the 21st century.
