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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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Citizen summary
Claudia Rankine
My Life After the White House
19 mins
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Citizen by Claudia Rankine is a powerful exploration of racism and microaggressions in America. Through prose and poetry, Rankine addresses the complexities of race and challenges readers to confront their own biases.
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Citizen
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Building a legacy of global disaster relief
Six days after leaving the White House, Bill Clinton received his first call to action as a private citizen: a devastating earthquake had struck Gujarat, India, killing 20,000 people and leaving entire towns and villages in ruins. Recognizing the need for urgent international support, Clinton offered his help to India’s prime minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a leader he admired for his commitment to India’s growth and stability. Vajpayee asked Clinton to rally the Indian American community to assist in rebuilding efforts – a request that would lead to the creation of the American India Foundation, or AIF.
Indian Americans, the most highly educated and successful immigrant group in the United States, were uniquely positioned to respond. Mobilizing this community, Clinton helped launch AIF, which raised $4 million in its first months and partnered with local NGOs to provide critical aid. In Gujarat, AIF delivered food, water, and medical care, while addressing longer-term needs like housing and education. The organization’s work expanded rapidly, rebuilding over 1,350 homes, creating schools and health centers, and increasing access to technology and microcredit for underserved communities.
Clinton was closely and personally involved in the crisis. In Bhuj, he met a man whose face had been disfigured by falling debris – a poignant reminder of the human resilience he sought to support. Through AIF, Clinton addressed the immediate devastation and set a precedent for innovative, collaborative disaster relief.
The experience in India marked a pivotal chapter in Clinton’s post-presidential life, blending philanthropy with global problem-solving and laying the groundwork for future initiatives. It also set the stage for his efforts in Haiti, which we’ll look at in the next section.
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What is Citizen about?
Citizen (2024) is a reflective memoir that explores former US president Bill Clinton’s life after leaving the White House. It covers pivotal moments in recent history, alongside personal insights about public service and the importance of building a better future. Through these reflections, Clinton emphasizes the power of community and individual action in shaping a more just and compassionate world.
Citizen Review
Citizen (2014) by Claudia Rankine is a thought-provoking and timely book that explores the experiences of racial microaggressions and systemic racism in contemporary society. Here's why we recommend reading it:
- The book's raw and honest narratives shed light on the daily realities of racism, challenging readers to confront their own biases and privileges.
- Rankine tackles complex issues with sensitivity and nuance, combining poetry, prose, and visual imagery to create a powerful and multi-dimensional narrative.
- Through its relatable and relatable stories, Citizen captures the universal struggle for belonging and highlights the urgency of dismantling systemic racism for a more inclusive society.
Who should read Citizen?
- Civic-minded professionals seeking inspiration for community engagement
- Socially conscious leaders aiming to drive meaningful change
- History enthusiasts interested in post-presidential perspectives
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Citizen FAQs
What is the main message of Citizen?
The main message of Citizen is an exploration of race and identity in America through powerful poetry and prose.
How long does it take to read Citizen?
The reading time for Citizen varies depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Citizen a good book? Is it worth reading?
Citizen is worth reading as it offers a compelling and thought-provoking perspective on race and identity. It is a powerful book that will leave a lasting impact.
Who is the author of Citizen?
The author of Citizen is Claudia Rankine.
What to read after Citizen?
If you're wondering what to read next after Citizen, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Melania by Melania Trump
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- Buddhism – Plain and Simple by Steve Hagen
- Freedom by Angela Merkel with Beate Baumann
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- Adaptability by Max McKeown
- Why Taiwan Matters by Kerry Brown