Racial Politics and White Supremacy
The essay collection gives insight into racial politics exercised by white supremacists in the US. There is a culture in the U.S that perceives whites as more superior to other races. Coates asserts that Barack Obama stayed in power for eight years but systematic racism hindered his plans to transform the country. Systematic racism in America has made it difficult for black people to be successful. White supremacists felt threatened by the presidency of Obama. Therefore, as Coates argues, in 2016 they ensured they elected a person who promoted their ideologies.
Civil Rights Activism
Ta-Nehisi Coates acknowledges that several people have been fighting for equality to ensure African Americans are treated right. People like Malcolm X wanted to see America as a country where every person regardless of race is treated equally. Hip-hop music has been articulating equal treatment for all persons from every race. The call for the rights of black people started during the civil war.
Enchantment vs. Disenchantment
The author describes America as a country where everyone is made to believe it’s a land of opportunities. However, black people continue to suffer at the hands of white individuals. The enchantment depicted about the US is just but the disenchantment about African Americans. The victory for Barack Obama was perceived as delight moments for the black community. On contrary, there was not much done for blacks because white supremacists continued fighting every effort made.
The Theme of Legacy
After eight years of governing the US, Barack Obama wanted to leave a good legacy. However, his efforts were always frustrated by systematic racism associated with American institutions. Coates argues that the legacy of Malcolm X lived in Obama. President Obama wanted to leave a legacy where every American felt equal. However, the election of President Trump in 2016 exasperated those plans.
Courage and Perseverance
Despite being subjected to racism and inequality, black people in the US have the courage to persevere through animosities. For instance, Barack Obama persevered and surmounted many challenges before becoming the president. Besides, Coates himself struggled and persevered before becoming an established writer. Through courage and perseverance, black people scale their careers to unexpected heights.
