Don Gillis will discuss his 2025 book, The Battle for Boston: How Mayor Ray Flynn and Community Organizers Fought Racism and Downtown Power Brokers, in conversation with JP residents, City Councilor Ben Weber and Enid Eckstein of JP Progressives.  

The Battle for Boston captures the remarkable era under Mayor Ray Flynn, whose election in 1983 marked the beginning of a profound shift in the city’s political and social landscape. The book chronicles the inspiring journey of a city that dared to challenge the entrenched power brokers, including developers, landlords, and banking industry leaders, through powerful grassroots campaigns. In a historic turn, in 2021, Michelle Wu became the first woman, person of color, and Asian American elected Mayor of Boston. Wu’s victory on a similarly progressive platform as Flynn underscores the enduring relevance of his legacy, signaling a hopeful future for more inclusive and effectively governed cities.

Books will be available at the event for purchase and to be signed.