Community
Not only do we see what community means in two ways, through organized political movements and through neighborhood community, but we also see in this story two experiences of community through the dual narratives of mother and daughter. Because Patricia wanted her daughter to grow up with a better chance of securing opportunities, Tananarive was moved to a white neighborhood in the suburbs where she was given a chance to understand community from a challenging point of view, as a black girl in a primarily white school during a tense moment in America's history. These two points of view show the movements for equality in full bloom.
Racial inequality and law
Through demonstrations against power, the truth about legal inequality between the races is demonstrated. For instance, no one flinches when a white man brandishes a gun at a peaceful demonstration, hoping to intimidate the group into leaving. This act of blatant terrorism is allowed by the officers of the law, showing that the law doesn't really intend on protecting the Black community. This shows that although changes are happening at the legal level, the racial prejudice of community members still leaves the Black community disenfranchised.
Opportunity and change
The imagery of hope takes on two main flavors in the stories: there is the thirst for opportunity and the hope for change. Both are an important part of this family's legacy, and both involve tremendous sacrifice and cooperation with others. Through moving into a suburban area, the family increases the opportunity for Tananarive, although the stories of her experience as a minority in her school are challenging. This means that the family has to sacrifice to gain opportunities that are abundant for white kids in better areas. This shows chronic inequality, because access to opportunity is so different.
Human dignity
The family instills in Tananarive a deep appreciation for human dignity and respect for human beings. This is the heart behind the non-violent political movements as well. Although hatred and violence might be tempting, given the outrageous history of American racism, the non-violence of these movements is rooted in a deep respect for all people, no matter what their skin color. To treat racism with racism would be ineffective, so instead, these movements attempt to make friends out of enemies. This is a challenging endeavor, but one that gives life to Patricia and her daughter.
