Summary

"Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire" by Akala is a searing exploration of race, class, and identity in modern Britain, refracted through the author's personal experiences and sharp socio-political analysis. Akala dissects the intertwined histories of empire, slavery, and racial prejudice, revealing their lingering impact on contemporary British society. The book serves as both a memoir and a manifesto, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about Britain's past and present.

Akala vividly recounts his upbringing in a clichéd, single-parent working-class family, dependent on state benefits and living in a council house. As a child of a British-Caribbean father and a Scottish/English mother, he navigates the complexities of mixed-race identity in a society rife with racial tensions. His narrative includes encounters with racism, violence, and the criminal justice system, highlighting the systemic disadvantages faced by black Britons. He juxtaposes these personal anecdotes with broader historical contexts, examining how British imperialism, economic policies, and cultural narratives have shaped these realities.

The book delves into the invention of 'whiteness' as a social construct designed to maintain power hierarchies, tracing its origins to the slave colonies of the New World. Akala critiques the polite denial and self-induced stupidity that often color discussions about race in the UK. He exposes the common counter-arguments used to silence discussions about Britain's racist history, challenging readers to move beyond superficial understandings of race and class.

Akala connects the dots between historical events and contemporary issues, illustrating how the legacies of empire and white supremacy continue to manifest in unequal treatment before the law, disparities in education, and racial exploitation. He urges readers to recognize racism not merely as interpersonal morality but as a structural violence perpetuated by states and institutions.

"Natives" is a call for a more honest and nuanced understanding of race and class in Britain. By weaving together personal narrative, historical analysis, and social commentary, Akala challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths and consider alternative futures where justice and equality prevail.