The implications of this graphic novel series are profound to say the least. At the beginning of the timeline, a racist America allowed for the use of military resources against American citizens, just because they were black and had the nerve to demand fair treatment as human beings. Recall that American racism is born from the idea that white humans are more evolved, and therefore, more human than other races. So, they regarded black people as animals, allowing for the unethical treatment of them, both through systemic injustice, and also through overt military opposition.
But at the end of 60 years, on January 20, 2009, President Barack Obama is being inaugurated. What does that say about the progress of the human rights groups in America? Essentially, the function of the book is remind the public that President Obama's place as the first black president was long overdue, and something to be celebrated by honoring those who suffered tremendously to make these things possible.
The next question must be, does having a black president mean that the issues are solved? The easy answer from Congressman John Lewis is no. As a key figure of the civil rights movement, Lewis keenly notes that elements of racism still exist, but they are weaker than ever, which is something worth celebrating.
