Urban Survival for the Year 2000: How to Prepare for the Y2K Computer Problem in the Hood
by Shahrazad Ali

Urban Survival for the Year 2000: Preparation for the Year 2000 Computer Problem for People of Color, written by Shahrazad Ali and published in 1999, explores the potential challenges posed by the Y2K problem, specifically for communities of color. At the time, the Y2K (Year 2000) computer bug raised widespread concerns about the possibility of technological failures due to computers’ inability to process dates correctly when switching from 1999 to 2000.

In her book, Ali provides advice on how people of color can prepare for possible disruptions in essential services, including utilities, transportation, and financial systems. Her perspective emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and preparedness for communities often underserved by mainstream emergency planning efforts. Although some of the specific concerns related to Y2K did not materialize to the extent predicted, Ali’s book reflects her broader themes of empowering African American communities through awareness and readiness for unforeseen challenges.