Description

Unrig the Game is an essential practical guide on how to sustainably support and retain women of color in leadership positions, ultimately helping create positive and lasting change. Written by Vanessa Priya Daniel, a former labor organizer, community advocate, and founder of a leading foundation supporting women of color-driven initiatives, this groundbreaking book shines a necessary spotlight on those who lead despite experiencing extraordinary challenges.

In recent American history, women of color have repeatedly directed decisive victories in vital social justice struggles. Whether leading grassroots marches in the streets, mobilizing voters at the polls, or holding power in elected office, women of color consistently and unwaveringly champion democracy, human rights, and ecological wellbeing. Despite these extraordinary contributions, the landscape they must navigate often includes severe obstacles and disproportionate barriers. The leadership environment these women face is deeply stacked against them. Imagine the potential gains for society and humanity at large if these barriers were dismantled. At this crucial historical juncture, how much more progress could be achieved if organizations stopped sidelining their strongest leaders?

Based on extensive interviews with forty-five significant women of color movement-builders and informed by Daniel’s own deep firsthand experience as a woman of color in leadership, Unrig the Game intimately explores the unique strengths, valuable perspectives, and impressive resilience these leaders possess. Beyond identity alone, Daniel demystifies leadership, clarifying exactly what these women bring to social change movements and what their allies should—and must—do to authentically support their visions.

Unrig the Game serves as a restorative resource, a powerful source of connection, and an invaluable set of leadership lessons for women of color. And for allies and everyone committed to justice, it provides clear guidance for building the world we collectively deserve.