In Defiance: 20 Abolitionists You Were Never Taught in School uncovers the untold stories of individuals who risked their lives to fight enslavement, serving as a compelling call for justice and the preservation of history.

This book brings to light the often-suppressed stories of those who risked everything to end enslavement. Profiling 20 Black and white men and women, the book highlights their courage, activism, and unwavering commitment to freedom. Through vivid vignettes, including their own words, their struggles and sacrifices come to life.

Amid ongoing efforts to erase history, these stories serve as a powerful corrective—meant to challenge, inspire, and ignite action. Co-authored by Tom Weiner, a Northampton-based writer, educator, and anti-racist activist, and Dr. Amilcar Shabazz, professor and former president of the National Council for Black Studies, the book weaves their perspectives into the narrative, emphasizing the importance of learning from the past. Both authors will join us for the meeting.

For fans of The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander and The Color of Abolition by Linda Hirshman, In Defiance is both a testament to those who fought for justice and an inspiration for those who continue the struggle today. 

Tom Weiner is a Northampton-based writer, educator, and anti-racism activist who taught for 40 years at Smith College Campus School and co-facilitated workshops on developing healthy boys. He also initiated efforts for a Reparations Commission in Northampton, MA.

Dr. Amilcar Shabazz is a professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and former president of the National Council for Black Studies. A renowned scholar and commentator, he has worked internationally and guided Amherst’s African Heritage Reparations Assembly in establishing one of the U.S.’s first funded reparative justice processes.

Purchasing information

Available at your local book store (Paperback 25.00): 

Gibson's Bookstore, 45 South Main St., Concord, NH 03301  603-224-0562 Needs to be ordered

Main Street BookEnds of Warner, 16 East Main St., Warner, NH 03278 (603) 456-2700 Needs to be ordered

Toadstool Bookstores, 12 Depot St., Peterborough, NH 03458   (603) 924-3543  Needs to be ordered

Water Street Bookstore, 125 Water Street, Exeter, NH 03833 (603) 778-9731  Needs to be ordered