The author and activist known for their powerful works on race and identity is James Baldwin. His writings, including novels like "Go Tell It on the Mountain" and essays such as "The Fire Next Time," explore the complexities of race relations in America, illuminating the struggles of African Americans throughout history. Baldwin's eloquent prose and incisive critique of societal norms established him as a key figure in the civil rights movement and continue to resonate in contemporary discussions on identity and justice.