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Coates highlights the impact of systemic racism on black communities from "summary" of Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates
In America, the belief in the white race's superiority has historically justified the exploitation and oppression of black people. This ideology created a system that systematically disadvantages black communities in every aspect of life. Through this lens, one can see how systemic racism operates as a powerful force that shapes the experiences and opportunities of black individuals. The legacy of slavery and segregation continues to haunt black communities, manifesting in various forms of discrimination and violence. Coates argues that the fear of bodily harm is a constant presence in the lives of black people, stemming from a deep-seated racism that views their bodies as inherently dangerous and criminal. This fear is not unfounded, as history has shown how black bodies have been brutalized and dehumanized throughout the centuries. The education system, the criminal justice system, and the healthcare system all perpetuate and reinforce systemic racism, further marginalizing black communities. Schools in predominantly black neighborhoods are underfunded and overcrowded, denying black children the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. The criminal justice system disproportionately targets and incarcerates black individuals, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and disenfranchisement. Coates also delves into the concept of the "Dream," a myth that promises equality and opportunity for all but only serves to uphold white supremacy. This Dream is built on the exploitation of black bodies and the denial of their humanity, perpetuating a system that benefits the few at the expense of the many. By exposing the Dream as a lie, Coates challenges his readers to confront the reality of systemic racism and work towards dismantling it.- Coates' exploration of systemic racism in black communities serves as a powerful indictment of a society that continues to devalue and oppress black lives. By shedding light on the impact of racism on black individuals, Coates calls upon his readers to acknowledge their complicity in upholding a system that perpetuates inequality and injustice.
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