5 Books for Leading, Serving & Sustaining the Movement
As legal professionals navigate an era defined by rapid change, increasing complexity, and evolving expectations, one thing remains constant: the need for principled leadership, meaningful service, and a commitment to community. That spirit is reflected in the theme of this year's West Michigan Black Legal Summit, "This Moment, Our Movement."
The phrase reminds us that while every generation faces different challenges, the work of building a strong, connected, and inclusive legal community continues. It is both a call to action and an invitation to reflect on how we lead, advocate, and care for ourselves and one another.
To accompany that theme, We Are LIT curated five books by Black authors that explore justice, leadership, resilience, purpose, and restoration. Together, these titles offer a roadmap for legal professionals committed not only to advancing their careers, but also to strengthening the communities they serve.
"My job is to never get off the road. I may have to switch lanes, but I have never ever gotten off the road." — Stacey Abrams
What Matters Most Now: Navigating a Legal Career and Life in an Era of Disruption
Just Pursuit: A Black Prosecutor's Fight for Fairness by Laura Coates
As legal professionals confront technological disruption, shifting expectations, and evolving social realities, Just Pursuit challenges us to consider not only what is lawful, but also what is right.
A Seat at the Table: Careers, Leadership and the Power of a J.D.
Lead from the Outside by Stacey Abrams
Stacey Abrams offers a powerful blueprint for professionals who have historically found themselves outside traditional centers of influence. Drawing from her experiences in public service and leadership, Abrams demonstrates how ambition, preparation, and purpose can create new opportunities and pathways for change.
This book reminds us that a legal education opens doors far beyond the courtroom and that leadership is often forged by those willing to create their own seat at the table.
Respect on Investment: Leading Before the Title Says You Can
Wise Words from Black Icons: Quotes to Empower, Uplift and Inspire by Edgar Chekera
Leadership begins long before a promotion or title. Sometimes it starts with a single idea, a moment of courage, or words that inspire action. This collection of wisdom from Black leaders, artists, activists, and changemakers offers readers daily encouragement and perspective.
For emerging leaders, the book serves as a reminder that influence is cultivated through character, consistency, and contribution.
Bringing Your Whole Self to Work: Navigating Identity, Rights, Risks and Career Growth in a Polarized Workplace
Rest Is Resistance: A Manifesto by Tricia Hersey
Authenticity requires self-awareness. Sustainability requires care. In Rest Is Resistance, Tricia Hersey challenges the relentless pursuit of productivity and argues that rest is essential to healing, creativity, and liberation.
For legal professionals navigating identity, advocacy, and workplace expectations, Hersey's message is clear: our value is not measured solely by our output. Rest is not withdrawal from the work. It is preparation for it.
The Work Ahead
Walking with the Wind: A Memoir of the Movement by John Lewis
The summit concludes by looking toward the future of the legal profession and the collective work required to expand opportunity and strengthen community. There may be no better companion for that conversation than John Lewis's memoir of the Civil Rights Movement.
Walking with the Wind reminds us that meaningful change is built through courage, collaboration, and perseverance. Lewis's life exemplifies what can happen when individuals commit themselves to a cause larger than themselves.
As we consider the work ahead, his story challenges each of us to ask how we will contribute to the movement and what legacy we hope to leave for those who follow.
