The Idea of America: Reflections on Inequality, Democracy, and the Values We Share

Advance Praise for Darren Walker’s The Idea of America

Darren Walker is driven by a deep conviction that the idea of America can be realized if we work together―and his book will make believers out of readers, too. It beautifully captures the spirit of optimism, creativity, and compassion that has made him one of the most influential leaders of the twenty-first century and a force for change on so many important issues. –Michael Bloomberg

Darren Walker’s collection of essays, speeches, and reflections is a testimony from one of the most powerful voices in modern philanthropy. The Idea of America explores how rediscovering our common principles can illuminate a united path forward, at a time when we need it most. –Amal Clooney & George Clooney

Darren Walker reaches into the marrow of who we are now–and who we might still become. Through a stunning chronicle of his life and learnings, Darren offers not just a reflection, but a reckoning: He shares his vision while reminding us that justice and dignity are not merely ideals of the past, but tasks of the present. Darren is dynamic, propulsive, intentional. His influence is a sprawl–from emerging artists to the world’s most high-profile leaders. The Idea of America speaks to that reach, and, more importantly, to the rare and generous spirit that fuels it. In this beautiful book, Darren Walker’s unshakable purpose becomes our rallying call. – Ava DuVernay

With the values of pluralism, inclusion, and social justice under assault, we need to reassert how our historic, shared ideals should unite Americans rather than pull us apart. In these bracing essays, Darren Walker summons us, on the 250th anniversary of our founding, to remember our higher calling as a nation. – Walter Isaacson

Darren Walker ushered in a new era in the history of American philanthropy, dedicated to closing the inequality gap, centering human dignity, and advancing social justice. In his valedictory book, he curates years of brilliant reflections, seminal essays, and beautifully crafted speeches. Readers witness his remarkable rise, his inquisitive and fertile mind, the clarity of his strategic vision, and the courage of his convictions. Through his visionary leadership, he has rallied us to the enduring creed of forging a more perfect union for all, especially our most disadvantaged fellow citizens. Darren Walker is a singular leader and a unique historical figure, and this collection is both a deeply moving record of his theory and practice of philanthropy, as well as an invaluable resource for those seeking inspiration in these challenging times, eager to build on his legacy by imagining and pursuing a more just and hopeful future. – Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

“I have lived on both sides of American inequality. And I know, all too personally, that the distance between the two has never been greater.”

DARREN WALKER EMBODIES THE PROMISE OF AMERICA. Born to a single mother in a Louisiana charity hospital, the pride of Head Start and public schools in rural East Texas, Walker serves today as the tenth president of the Ford Foundation, established in 1936 and endowed with more than $16 billion in assets.

In The Idea of America, Walker argues powerfully that we can narrow our widening divides―and make possible more American journeys like his―by rediscovering our common values and common good. With an original Foreword by President Bill Clinton, this prescient, timely compendium introduces us to an essential leader of and for our moment―in his own words―through his most essential reflections, essays, and speeches.

Across 97 selections, Walker shares his urgent reaffirmation of the enduring American project―that out of many, we are one; that all deserve dignity, fairness, and opportunity. He also calls for courageous, moral leadership―challenging us to step back from the extremes, to lean into nuance and complexity, and to build longer bridges.

“Hope,” Walker affirms, “is the oxygen of democracy.” And in this collection, Walker gives testimony to all that is possible “if we renew our fidelity to the values that bind us, both despite and because of our differences.”

ADDITIONAL PRAISE FOR THE IDEA OF AMERICA

“Darren Walker is driven by a deep conviction that the idea of America can be realized if we work together―and his book will make believers out of readers, too. It beautifully captures the spirit of optimism, creativity, and compassion that has made him one of the most influential leaders of the 21st century.”
―MICHAEL BLOOMBERG

“Darren Walker reaches into the marrow of who we are now―and who we might still become. Through a stunning chronicle of his life and learnings, Darren shares his vision, while reminding us that justice and dignity are not merely ideals of the past, but tasks of the present. In this beautiful book, Darren Walker’s unshakable purpose becomes our rallying call.”
―AVA DUVERNAY

“Darren Walker is a singular leader and a unique historical figure, and this collection is both a deeply moving record of his theory and practice of philanthropy, as well as an invaluable resource for those seeking inspiration in these challenging times, eager to build on his legacy by imagining and pursuing a more just and hopeful future.”
―HENRY LOUIS GATES, JR.