Introduction
In "This Is the Fire," CNN anchor Don Lemon takes readers on a journey through America's complex history of racism and its ongoing impact on society today. Drawing from personal experiences, historical events, and contemporary issues, Lemon explores the roots of racial injustice and offers insights into how the nation can move forward. The book's title is inspired by James Baldwin's 1963 work "The Fire Next Time," which warned of the consequences of unaddressed racial inequality.
Written in the wake of the tumultuous events of 2020, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the widespread protests following George Floyd's murder, Lemon's book serves as both a reflection on America's past and a call to action for its future. With a blend of personal anecdotes, historical analysis, and cultural commentary, Lemon presents a compelling case for confronting and dismantling systemic racism in America.
The Turning Point: George Floyd's Murder and the 2020 Protests
The summer of 2020 marked a significant shift in America's racial discourse. The horrific video of George Floyd's murder at the hands of a white police officer sparked outrage and ignited protests across the country. This event, coupled with the deaths of Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery, brought the issue of racial injustice to the forefront of national consciousness.
Lemon argues that these protests were different from previous Black Lives Matter demonstrations. The sheer scale and intensity of the response indicated that a broader segment of society was finally acknowledging the depth of America's racism problem. People of all races and backgrounds took to the streets, demanding change and justice.
The author draws a parallel between this moment and James Baldwin's prediction of a "fire" that would engulf America if racial injustice remained unaddressed. Lemon suggests that the country is now in the midst of this metaphorical fire, with the potential for both destruction and rebirth.
Interestingly, Lemon posits that Donald Trump's presidency, while deeply problematic, served a purpose in exposing the extent of racism in America. Like symptoms revealing an underlying disease, Trump's rhetoric and policies forced the nation to confront its racist underpinnings. This uncomfortable reckoning, combined with the mass protests, created an opportunity for meaningful change.
However, Lemon emphasizes that change requires action and a willingness to engage with uncomfortable ideas. He calls for different marginalized groups to set aside their differences and form powerful coalitions. Black Americans are urged to forgive without forgetting the past, while white Americans are encouraged to educate themselves on racial issues. Without these efforts, Lemon warns, racism will continue to fester in American society.
The Deliberate Creation of America's Racist System
To understand the current state of racial inequality in America, Lemon delves into the country's history, particularly focusing on the institution of slavery. He uses the example of Louisiana to illustrate how the slave population grew from just ten in 1712 to 20,000 by the end of the century. This dramatic increase was driven by the economic interests of plantation owners who relied on enslaved people for free labor.
Lemon emphasizes that the system of racial oppression in America was not accidental but deliberately created. The dehumanization of Black people was a conscious choice made to justify their exploitation for economic gain. This system was maintained through extreme violence, as exemplified by the brutal punishment of Charles Deslondes, who led an uprising in 1812.
The author argues that the consequences of this deliberately created system continue to affect both Black and white Americans today. For Black Americans, it manifests in the form of low expectations and stereotypes – what Lemon calls the "Black box." He shares personal experiences of feeling trapped by these expectations, such as when white parents complained about his election as class president in high school.
These prejudices often manifest as microaggressions – subtle, often unintentional discriminatory comments or actions that Black people face daily. Lemon points out that these microaggressions are difficult to call out but contribute to the ongoing racial tension in America.
To address this deeply ingrained racism, Lemon calls for the creation of a new system based on higher moral values. He suggests that this new system should prioritize kindness, community, and economic justice, in contrast to the self-interest and cruelty that characterized the old racist system.
The Persistent Lack of Empathy for Black Lives
Lemon draws a parallel between the Trump administration's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the historical lack of empathy for Black lives in America. He points out that even as the pandemic disproportionately affected Black communities, there was a lack of urgency in addressing the crisis. This indifference, exemplified by Trump's "It is what it is" response to the mounting death toll, reflects a long-standing pattern of disregard for Black suffering.
The author highlights how this lack of empathy has been evident throughout American history, from the days of slavery to more recent crises like the opioid epidemic and the AIDS crisis. He cites statistics showing that Black Americans died from COVID-19 at nearly twice the rate expected based on their population size, yet this disparity failed to prompt significant action from those in power.
Lemon also discusses the disturbing history of using images of Black suffering and death to elicit public reactions. During slavery and the Jim Crow era, the bodies of murdered Black people were often displayed as warnings or even sold as postcards. In the modern era, videos of police brutality against Black individuals circulate on social media, sparking outrage and protests.
While acknowledging that these images can draw attention to racial injustice, Lemon questions the ethics and effectiveness of this approach. He wonders at what point people might become desensitized to such imagery and asks when activists will no longer need to rely on depictions of Black suffering to mobilize support. The author argues that Black lives should matter in life, not just in death.
Rethinking Police Reform
In addressing the issue of police brutality against Black Americans, Lemon takes a nuanced stance. He acknowledges the disproportionate rate at which Black people are killed by police, citing statistics that show Black individuals make up 13% of the U.S. population but account for 32% of people killed in police interactions. The author recounts several high-profile cases of police violence against Black people, contrasting them with the relatively calm arrest of white mass shooter Dylann Roof.
However, Lemon disagrees with calls to defund the police entirely. He argues that this approach is overly simplistic and alienates potential allies. Instead, he proposes a more comprehensive reform of the justice system.
The author suggests that part of the problem lies in the fact that police officers are often ill-equipped to handle the wide range of situations they encounter. He believes that many individuals join the police force with good intentions but become overwhelmed and influenced by a culture of violence and racial bias that has its roots in the policing of enslaved and free Black people during America's early history.
Lemon proposes several solutions:
Specialized units: Create dedicated units to handle specific issues like domestic violence, reducing the burden on general police officers.
Alternative policing models: He cites Newark, New Jersey's Office of Violence Prevention as an example, where social workers and other trained professionals respond to certain situations instead of armed officers.
Systemic change: Focus on reforming the entire justice system, including policies and prosecution trends that discriminate against Black people.
Political engagement: Encourage active participation in the political process to push for legislative changes that address systemic racism in law enforcement.
By implementing these changes, Lemon believes it's possible to address police brutality without completely dismantling law enforcement institutions.
Challenging White Supremacist Narratives in American Culture
Lemon draws inspiration from South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission, established after the end of apartheid. This commission allowed Black South Africans to share their experiences publicly, ensuring an accurate historical record and promoting empathy and forgiveness. The author sees this as a model for how America could address its own racist history.
Central to Lemon's argument is the need to question and challenge narratives that promote white supremacist ideas. He points to the "Lost Cause" mythology that emerged in the American South after the Civil War as a prime example. This narrative reframed the Civil War as a conflict about Southern pride and states' rights rather than slavery, romanticizing the Confederacy and its leaders.
The author notes that elements of this mythology persist today, such as the presence of Confederate monuments in the South. However, he also highlights recent progress, such as the removal of Confederate statues in Richmond, Virginia, in 2020.
Lemon extends his critique beyond historical narratives to popular culture. He reflects on his childhood experiences of rarely seeing Black characters in books and movies, and when present, they were often relegated to insignificant roles or based on racist stereotypes. He points out that even in modern times, problematic portrayals like blackface have appeared on popular shows like Saturday Night Live.
The author argues that these cultural narratives and tropes contribute to the perpetuation of racial stereotypes and prejudices, influencing everything from workplace dynamics to courtroom decisions. However, Lemon doesn't advocate for erasing or "canceling" these cultural artifacts. Instead, he proposes:
Contextualizing: Consume these stories with an understanding of their historical context and problematic elements.
Critical discussion: Engage in open dialogue about the flawed tropes and narratives, exploring their origins and impacts.
Preserving history: Maintain these cultural artifacts as part of America's complex story, rather than erasing them entirely.
By taking this approach, Lemon believes society can learn from its past while working towards a more inclusive and equitable future.
The Economic Roots of Racism and the Power of Financial Action
Lemon illustrates the persistent nature of racial discrimination through a personal anecdote about being denied entry to a store due to supposed COVID-19 restrictions, only to see a white woman shopping inside. This experience leads him to return his purchase and withdraw his financial support from the business, demonstrating the power of economic action in combating racism.
The author traces the roots of American racism back to economic motivations. He explains how the enslavement of Black people was driven by the desire for free labor to build wealth for white Americans. This economic exploitation was supported by the creation of racist ideas, laws, and social structures designed to maintain the system and deny opportunities to Black people.
Despite these obstacles, many Black individuals and communities managed to achieve economic success. However, Lemon points out that this success was often met with violence from white supremacists, citing the destruction of "Black Wall Street" in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1921 as a stark example.
The economic impact of centuries of racism on Black Americans is incalculable. Lemon provides a starting point for consideration: the value of free labor provided by nearly four million enslaved people, each worth over $650,000 in today's terms. He argues that reparations for this historical injustice should come in the form of improved education, housing, healthcare, and economic opportunities for Black Americans.
However, Lemon is pragmatic about how change can be achieved. He believes that appeals to moral conscience alone are insufficient to end racism. Instead, he proposes using economic power as a tool for change:
Consumer action: Refuse to support businesses and brands with racist practices or associations.
Legal action: File lawsuits against instances of police brutality and other forms of racial discrimination.
Strategic spending: Direct financial resources towards businesses and initiatives that promote racial equality.
By making racism economically unsustainable, Lemon argues that society will be forced to change. This approach leverages the very force that drove the creation of America's racist systems – money – to dismantle those systems.
The Role of Empathy and Education in Combating Racism
Throughout the book, Lemon emphasizes the importance of empathy in addressing racial injustice. He argues that to truly understand and combat racism, people must be willing to listen to and learn from the experiences of others, particularly those who have been directly affected by racial discrimination.
The author calls for a nationwide effort to educate people about the true history of racism in America. This includes:
Accurate historical education: Ensuring that schools teach a comprehensive and honest account of American history, including the realities of slavery, Jim Crow laws, and ongoing systemic racism.
Cultural competency training: Implementing programs in workplaces and institutions to help people understand and respect cultural differences.
Media representation: Encouraging diverse and authentic portrayals of Black people and other minorities in film, television, and other media.
Open dialogue: Creating safe spaces for people to discuss race and racism openly and honestly, without fear of judgment or reprisal.
Lemon believes that through education and empathy, it's possible to break down the barriers of misunderstanding and prejudice that contribute to ongoing racial tensions.
The Importance of Political Engagement and Voting
While much of the book focuses on cultural and social aspects of racism, Lemon also stresses the critical role of political engagement in effecting change. He argues that voting is one of the most powerful tools available to combat systemic racism.
The author encourages readers to:
Stay informed: Keep up with local and national politics, particularly regarding issues that affect racial equality.
Vote in all elections: Participate not just in presidential elections, but also in local and state elections that often have a more direct impact on day-to-day life.
Hold elected officials accountable: Demand that politicians address issues of racial inequality and follow through on their promises.
Run for office: Consider becoming directly involved in politics to effect change from within the system.
Lemon emphasizes that political engagement is crucial for enacting the legislative changes necessary to address systemic racism in areas such as criminal justice, education, and economic policy.
The Power of Individual Action
While much of the book deals with large-scale societal issues, Lemon also highlights the importance of individual actions in combating racism. He encourages readers to:
Speak up: Challenge racist comments and behaviors when encountered in daily life.
Support Black-owned businesses: Use economic power to support and uplift Black communities.
Educate oneself: Take personal responsibility for learning about racial issues and history.
Be an ally: Stand with and support Black individuals and communities in their fight for equality.
Raise anti-racist children: Teach the next generation about equality, empathy, and the value of diversity.
Lemon argues that while systemic change is necessary, the cumulative effect of individual actions can also have a significant impact on reducing racism in society.
The Role of White Allies in Combating Racism
Lemon dedicates a portion of the book to discussing the role of white allies in the fight against racism. He acknowledges that many white Americans want to help but may feel unsure about how to do so effectively. The author offers several suggestions:
Listen and learn: Be open to hearing about the experiences of Black people and other minorities without becoming defensive.
Use privilege for good: Recognize white privilege and use it to amplify Black voices and support anti-racist initiatives.
Have difficult conversations: Be willing to discuss racism with other white people, even when it's uncomfortable.
Take action: Move beyond words to concrete actions that support racial equality.
Accept discomfort: Understand that confronting one's own biases and the reality of systemic racism can be uncomfortable, but it's necessary for growth and change.
Lemon emphasizes that white allies play a crucial role in dismantling racist systems and attitudes, particularly in spaces where Black voices may be underrepresented or ignored.
The Intersection of Racism with Other Forms of Discrimination
While the book primarily focuses on anti-Black racism, Lemon also touches on how racism intersects with other forms of discrimination, such as sexism, homophobia, and xenophobia. He argues that these various forms of oppression are interconnected and that fighting against one requires addressing all of them.
The author calls for solidarity among different marginalized groups, suggesting that by working together, they can create a more powerful force for change. He also warns against the danger of infighting among oppressed groups, which can distract from the larger goal of achieving equality for all.
Hope for the Future
Despite the heavy subject matter, Lemon's book is ultimately hopeful. He sees the events of 2020 – from the Black Lives Matter protests to the increased awareness of systemic racism – as signs that America is at a turning point. The author believes that by confronting its racist past and present head-on, the country has the opportunity to create a more just and equitable future.
Lemon envisions a future where:
- Racial equality is the norm, not the exception.
- The contributions of Black Americans to the country's history and culture are fully recognized and celebrated.
- Systemic barriers to Black success in education, employment, and other areas are dismantled.
- The criminal justice system treats all people fairly, regardless of race.
- America's diversity is seen as a strength rather than a source of division.
While acknowledging that achieving this vision will require sustained effort and commitment from all segments of society, Lemon remains optimistic about America's capacity for change and growth.
Conclusion
"This Is the Fire" is a powerful and timely exploration of racism in America. Through a combination of personal reflection, historical analysis, and cultural commentary, Don Lemon provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of how racism has shaped the nation and continues to impact it today.
The book serves as both a wake-up call and a call to action. Lemon challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about America's racist past and present, but he also offers hope and practical suggestions for how individuals and society as a whole can work towards a more equitable future.
By emphasizing the importance of empathy, education, political engagement, and economic action, Lemon provides a roadmap for addressing systemic racism. He argues that while the task may seem daunting, every individual has the power to contribute to positive change.
Ultimately, "This Is the Fire" is a reminder that the fight against racism is ongoing and requires constant vigilance and effort. But it's also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for a nation to evolve and improve. As Lemon suggests, by working together and confronting racism head-on, America has the opportunity to emerge from the metaphorical fire as a stronger, more just, and truly united country.