Between the World and Me

Coates’ book is part memoir, part history and is written in the form of a letter to his son. He talks about his own experiences of racism and growing up Black in America. Coates also talks about the racist history of the US and its aftermath with what we still see happening today with police brutality and systemic racism.

I gained new perspectives on how America won’t change by simply speaking against racism but that actions need to be taken and that it will take time. Coates brings to our attention how different it is to be a Black child and raise Black children-it’s something I have the privilege of not knowing and a quote from earlier in the year came back to me as I read these experiences; “I understand that I will never understand.” 

I can learn and try to be better but I will never fully grasp what Coates and other Black Americans go through because of my privilege. I hope to continue my education of anti-racism through books and raising social awareness, as well as do my part to take action by having tough conversations with family members and volunteering where I can.