The Kindness of Color

The Story of Two Families and Mendez, et al. v. Westminster, the 1947 Desegregation of California Public Schools

By: Janice Munemitsu

Narrated by: Janice Munemitsu

The true story of two immigrant families, their struggle against racism, and the kindnesses that helped them toward a brighter future.

A true story of perseverance, unity, and hope, The Kindness of Color follows two immigrant families facing separate battles with racism in WWII-era Southern California. Unexpectedly, their paths intertwine, ultimately paving the way for the landmark court case Mendez, et. al v. Westminster and the desegregation of California public schools seven years before Brown v. Board of Education.

In the face of tremendous discrimination, the Mendez and Munemitsu families are sustained by the simple yet harrowing acts of kindness extended to them by friends and strangers as they navigate their difficult journeys toward justice. It is this kindness that encourages their hearts, opens paths to solutions, and creates communities of support - all highlighting the beauty and power of The Kindness of Color.

©2021 Janice Munemitsu (P)2021 Janice Munemitsu

Critic reviews

"... a book full to the brim with passion, truth and insight. The lessons you will learn as you turn these pages will help you not only understand the past, but will influence your future." (Bob Goff, New York Times best-selling author of Love Does, Everybody Always and Dream Big)

“The Kindness of Color is a beautifully crafted true and inspiring story of how the cross-cultural cooperation between two oppressed families and communities of color in Orange County, California, during the World War II era, led to a landmark case of public-school desegregation at the state and national levels." (Dr. Art Hansen, emeritus professor of history and Asian American studies, California State University, Fullerton)

Wonderful true story!

I discovered this book as the author is on the board of directors for The Bible Project, a ministry I believe in and support. I’m so glad I found this audiobook as I was not at all familiar with the story. I’m glad it’s being told. I will see if I can find the documentary “Mendez verses Westminster” to learn more about the subject.

Together we are the kindness of color

I love the ‘Kindness is. . .’ statements; they are applicable in every day life. Thankyou Janice