In Wantonly Treacherous, Vanessa Riley reflects on faith, racial violence, and the fragility of democracy. From 9/11 to historical massacres and modern gun violence, this essay explores the consequences of hate, the importance of truth, and the need for empathy in a divided world.

This week’s book recommendations are:White Rage: The Unspoken Truth of Our Racial Divide by Carol Anderson – Explains how systemic white backlash perpetuates racial violence,The Cross and the Lynching Tree by James H. Cone discusses the two most emotionally charged symbols relevant to Black communities, the Christian cross and the murderous lynching tree and their interconnection to the souls of Black folk.Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X. Kendi – Traces the history of racist ideas in America, showing the ideological roots of wanton treachery.The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin – Highlights the consequences of ignoring racial injustice and moral responsibility.The Filling Station by Vanessa Miller is a historical fiction rooted in the truth of the Tulsa Massacre, and it explores themes of racial violence, the resilience of Black communities, and the complexities of faith and justice in the face of systemic oppression.

Keywords:
Wantonly Treacherous, 9/11 reflections, racial violence, white rage, Black history, Psalms 25, gun violence, democracy fragility, empathy, truth, civil unrest, historical massacres, social justice, faith, podcast essay


Episode Notes & Extras 


Find my full show notes, behind-the-scenes thoughts, and extras on Substack → vanessariley.substack.com 

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