Racism as a dinosaur (Simile)
In the opening chapter, Reynolds and Kendi introduce the concept of race and how it is currently perceived throughout the world. They explain that some people may believe that racism existed in the past and is no longer a problem that deserves attention. They then explain that others may consider racism to be an alligator, "a dinosaur that never went extinct but instead evolved." However, Reynolds and Kendi argue that both of these perspectives are counterproductive to the fight against racism today. Kendi and Reynolds explain that race and racism can be found everywhere, from "minor" conflicts to system-wide exclusionary policies.
Racism as a drug (Simile)
Drugs are a recurring motif throughout the book, as they provide a powerful association that prompts the reader to unpack their politicization. Reynolds and Kendi use a metaphor to compare racism to a drug. They write, "Was he on drugs? Yes. Yes, he was. The most addictive drug known to America. Racism. It causes wealth, an inflated sense of self, and hallucinations." Racism is a construct, and thus it may be a bit difficult to grasp its horrendous implications. By using a simile, Reynolds and Kendi prompt the reader to see racism as the dangerous, harmful, and destructive entity it is.
Freedom like quicksand (Simile)
Reynolds and Kendi use the following simile to describe racism: “Freedom in America was like quicksand. It looked solid until a Black person tried to stand on it. Then it became clear it was a sinkhole." Throughout history, Black people in America have been fighting to have the freedoms that have been granted to white people in society. However, American society has been built on placing Black people at the bottom of the social hierarchy in order to support the capitalist system. Every time Black people have pushed back on their position, they were overwhelmingly re-oppressed in order to maintain the "status quo."
Breaking bones (Metaphor)
Reynolds and Kendi explain that throughout history, the American government has employed "political and physical violence [...] to break the bones of Black liberation." This example again demonstrates how Reynolds and Kendi use metaphors to connect complex ideas with powerful and associative imagery. Black resistance has been met with violence that has caused major setbacks in the national antiracist movement.
Racist roadblocks (Metaphor)
Stamped chronicles events of the past in order to understand how history has laid the foundation for an unequal and unjust American society. Reynolds and Kendi refer to the many "racist roadblocks" that leaders encountered during their fight for Black liberation. The authors encourage the readers to evaluate the past and show how racist roadblocks continue to stifle equality. How have these roadblocks shaped national policies, laws, and attitudes today?
