The article discusses the life and career of Sajid Javid, a British politician who served as Home Secretary from 2018 to 2022. The article is based on Javid's memoir "The Colour of Home: Growing up in 1970s Britain," which was published in February 2024.
Javid was born to parents from Pakistan and grew up in a council flat in Wembley, London. He faced racism and bullying as a child but also found solace in his family and community. His memoir provides an intimate look at his childhood and early life experiences, including the challenges he faced as a minority Muslim living in a predominantly white Britain.
Javid's entry into politics began when he was elected to Parliament in 2010. He served under Prime Minister David Cameron and later Theresa May before becoming Home Secretary. During his tenure, Javid focused on issues related to immigration, crime, and social cohesion.
One of the key themes in Javid's memoir is his complex relationship with Boris Johnson, whom he had a strained working relationship with as Chancellor of the Exchequer. Javid eventually resigned from Johnson's government twice due to disagreements over policy and leadership.
Despite facing challenges and setbacks throughout his career, Javid remains optimistic about the potential for social cohesion and community healing in Britain. He believes that politics can be a force for good if leaders are willing to listen to different perspectives and work towards common goals.
The article concludes by noting that "The Colour of Home" is not a traditional political memoir but rather an intimate childhood story that offers insights into Javid's personal experiences and the social context in which he grew up. The book is published on February 5 at £25, with proceeds supporting the Guardian.
Javid was born to parents from Pakistan and grew up in a council flat in Wembley, London. He faced racism and bullying as a child but also found solace in his family and community. His memoir provides an intimate look at his childhood and early life experiences, including the challenges he faced as a minority Muslim living in a predominantly white Britain.
Javid's entry into politics began when he was elected to Parliament in 2010. He served under Prime Minister David Cameron and later Theresa May before becoming Home Secretary. During his tenure, Javid focused on issues related to immigration, crime, and social cohesion.
One of the key themes in Javid's memoir is his complex relationship with Boris Johnson, whom he had a strained working relationship with as Chancellor of the Exchequer. Javid eventually resigned from Johnson's government twice due to disagreements over policy and leadership.
Despite facing challenges and setbacks throughout his career, Javid remains optimistic about the potential for social cohesion and community healing in Britain. He believes that politics can be a force for good if leaders are willing to listen to different perspectives and work towards common goals.
The article concludes by noting that "The Colour of Home" is not a traditional political memoir but rather an intimate childhood story that offers insights into Javid's personal experiences and the social context in which he grew up. The book is published on February 5 at £25, with proceeds supporting the Guardian.