Gail Lumet Buckley, writer who traced Black achievement, dies at 86

Gail Lumet Buckley, a writer known for blending history and memoir to highlight Black achievement in America, passed away at 86. Her life, shaped by the legacy of her mother, legendary entertainer Lena Horne, was marked by both privilege and racism. Buckley's childhood was a mix of Hollywood glamour and Ivy League education, yet she faced discrimination due to her race. Through a trunk of family artifacts, she uncovered her family's history, which led to her bestselling book, "The Hornes: An American Family." This book traced her lineage back to a great-great-great-great-grandmother who was born into slavery in Maryland. Buckley's research revealed her mother's struggles with discrimination and her clandestine affair with boxing champion Joe Louis. Her subsequent books, "American Patriots" and "The Black Calhouns," delved into the contributions of Black Americans to the military and the story of her great-great-grandfather, Moses Calhoun, who rose from slavery to become a successful businessman. Despite her mother's fame, Buckley acknowledged the persistent racism they both faced, even in the face of privilege. Her own life was a tapestry of education, marriage to director Sidney Lumet, and a vibrant social life. She continued writing until her death, leaving behind a legacy of insightful books that illuminated the experiences and contributions of Black Americans. Though she experienced both privilege and discrimination, Buckley remained a strong voice for racial justice and a proud advocate for her heritage.