Freedom Is a Constant Struggle

How does Davis use key historical figures as examples to illustrate her arguments? Discuss three such figures, what arguments Davis conveys through her discussion of those figures, and what evidence she provides to support her arguments.

What role can Black feminism theories and practices and the concept of intersectionality play in strengthening our understanding of freedom struggles and building movements? Provide one or two examples of movements and discuss how a Black feminist or intersectional approach could strengthen that movement.

In what ways is the possibility of global solidarity made easier in the 21st century? In what ways is it more difficult?

Davis discusses the need for us to learn how to talk about topics like racism, genocide, and slavery. Why does she believe we do not know how to properly have discourse on such topics, and why is it important that we do learn how? Include in your answer how language and discourse can affect how we understand and talk about concepts like racism.

In Essay 9, “Political Activism and Protest from the 1960s to the Age of Obama,” Davis speaks about a simultaneous progression and regression in the struggle for freedom. How can both be true? Do you think there has been more progression, or regression, or both in equal amounts? Explain your answer.

Davis provides her speeches and interviews in a context close in time to the Ferguson protests, with some immediately before or after. Consider recent or current events, specifically the nationwide and global protests in response to the police killing of George Floyd in 2020 and the larger Black Lives Matter movement. Within this context, are the lessons Davis hopes to convey in this book still applicable today? Has anything changed from her analysis? If yes, how so? If no, how not?

How does Angela Davis use juxtaposition throughout the book? Choose three examples of juxtaposition and explain how Davis uses them to illustrate her key points.

Davis repeatedly asks readers to draw connections between past and present struggles, and between current struggles globally. Consider the parallels and comparisons Davis herself makes between various struggles or movements. What can be learned from connecting various movements in the way Davis advocates? How can people gain support for their struggle from others who do not necessarily identify with it immediately?