On September 17, the Illini Union Bookstore Author’s Corner, on the campus of the University of Illinois, hosted a book launch event, where a packed house celebrated the release of Dr. Gus Wood’s, Assistant Professor in the Labor Education Program, new book, Class Warfare in Black Atlanta: Grassroots Struggles, Power, and Repression Under Gentrification.
Dean Simon Restubog opened with a warm greeting and overview of Dr. Wood’s scholarship. Then Professor Wood took the podium and provided an overview of his book, which critically examines the conflict between working-class Black neighborhoods and a Black elite intent on remaking Atlanta into a “world-class city.” Professors Sundiata Cha-Jua, History Department, and Stephanie Fortado, School of Labor and Employment Relations, then moderated a discussion of the book, which was joined by comments and questions from audience members. The lively discussion continued after the formal portion of the program, as Professor Wood signed copies of his book and chatted with many attendees.
This fall, Dr. Wood has a full calendar of book talks scheduled on campus, in the community, in Chicago, and on other college campuses. The Authors Corner event provided a meaningful opportunity for University of Illinois faculty, students, and community members to discuss this groundbreaking book.