Freedom
The concept of freedom is a recurring theme and motif in this text, as Kendi explains how this concept has changed throughout history, from slavery to Jim Crow and modern-day racism. As the concept of freedom has evolved through time, Kendi argues that freedom now requires complete and true equality.
Different types of racism
In this novel, Kendi distinguishes between different types of racism, including segregationists and assimilationists. While segregationists "blamed black people themselves for racial disparities," assimilationists argues that is is a combination of black people and racial discrimination. Segregationists are associated with overt forms of racism such as discrimination and segregation, while assimilationists are more neutral, but don't actively fight against racism as antiracists do.
