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Published by: Crown Currency
Release Date: September 9, 2025
Pages: 288
ISBN13: 979-8217085972

 
 

OVERVIEW

Social psychologist Robert Livingston contends that racism operates like an addiction for so many White people: hard to admit, and even harder to quit. Given their unwillingness to kick the habit, Livingston asks: How can Black people attain prosperity and peace of mind despite the enduring presence of racism?
He reveals three paths:

PLAY THE GAME, or find ways to work within mainstream, predominantly White systems without sacrificing your identity or dignity. Think of Kenneth Chenault, a “tempered radical” who rose through the ranks to become the first Black CEO of American Express.

CHANGE THE GAME, or challenge the status quo in an effort to upend White supremacy—like Colin Kaepernick, whose idealism cost him his football career but made him an icon.

LEAVE THE GAME, or turn away from White environments to carve out spaces where Black people can flourish—from HBCUs to entrepreneurship to the creation of ethnic enclaves, like the all-Black, middle-class neighborhood where Livingston himself grew up.

Drawing on social science, his own experiences, and interviews with trailblazing Black leaders and luminaries, Livingston reveals the contours of these oft overlapping paths for effectively navigating, mitigating, and circumventing White supremacy. Play the Game. Change the Game. Leave the Game. is a bold, groundbreaking proposition that empowers readers to make the leap from being played to creating their own game plan.

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PRAISE

“Written with a keen understanding of the complexities of race and identity, this book is an uplifting message that marginalized groups are both mighty and resourceful. A timely reminder for those who feel lost during these difficult times.”
—Kimberlé Crenshaw, distinguished professor of law at UCLA and faculty director of the Center for Intersectionality and Social Policy Studies, Columbia University

“Play the Game. Change the Game. Leave the Game is a compelling exploration of resilience and change. There’s so much in this world over which we have no control, but Livingston reminds us of just how much control we do have. I think this will be the biggest book about race and careers in a generation.”
—Dr. David A. Thomas, 12th president of Morehouse College (2018-2025)

“In this groundbreaking work, Robert Livingston blends pragmatic advice with rigorous research to teach us how to navigate, confront, or exit our stubborn institutions. At a trying and testing time, this book is a restorative that shows us—once again—that its author is a national treasure.”
—Kenji Yoshino, author of Covering and Say the Right Thing; professor at NYU; and faculty director of the Meltzer Center for Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

“With uncommon clarity and conviction, Robert Livingston offers a compelling roadmap for so many Black Americans who are working to make sense of the state of our nation and world. His is an insightful and illuminating work—filled with advice and role models whose journeys will inspire you on your own.”
—Anthony Foxx, United States Secretary of Transportation (2013-2017)