Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ

I've read a number of books on systemic racism before and always found them informative and thought-provoking. Some are more academically based and inclined, and others a bit more accessible to the general public. I'd add this one to the latter group.

I was especially interested in the concept of systemic racism as a reflection of "caste", and the comparisons Wilkerson provided in drawing parallels between our U.S. history with the caste system of India and the treatment of Jews in Germany during WWII. To think the Nazi's took their playbook from things going on here is especially disgusting, but not hard to believe. While there are some differences between a more traditional caste system and what occurs in the United States, such as in the degree of "acceptance of place", the framework discussed did shed light on how embedded some practices and beliefs are in our current culture, along with the damage done as a result.

Wilkerson outlines 8 "pillars" that these hierarchies rest on in order to be maintained. She likened it to a corporation that seeks to maintain its existence with the established structures in place. Throughout the explanations, she pulls in high-profile events (in our news with frustrating regularity) to hammer home the personal and societal damage these subtle (and not so subtle) practices create; discussing how the absorption of toxic elements pervades the social order to the point things aren't even questioned, but appear predestined or logical. And, dishearteningly, she helped me understand how some will seek to maintain their sense of dominance even at the risk of self-harm in countless other ways.

This book provided good reminders, additional perspectives, and more food for thought as we continue to struggle as a culture to truly live up to our stated ideals. It was worth my time as I continue my quest to expand my understanding and awareness of what others have been forced to experience. It gave me additional words with which to dialogue with others about the state of our polarized country/world. And it gave me greater "field of vision" as I interact with others around me, watching for those embedded practices that I need to guard against or fight against.