Tears We Cannot Stop: A Sermon to White America

Dyson argues that most of America’s social problems derive from race. The history of slavery remains a haunting issue that creates racial division between Black and white people. Dyson describes society’s disruption, referring to the paradox of electing Donald Trump, a representative of white privilege, after the presidency of the first Black president, Barack Obama. He states that America must deal with its “original sin.”

Dyson describes his work as a critic, scholar and activist, and states that he primarily considers himself a “Black preacher.” In this spirit, he reveals his hopes for the nation’s healing. The only solution America has is to confront its racist historical past and the ongoing oppression of Black people, as the legacy of slavery continues to impact American society. Dyson addresses his book as a sermon toward white Americans, hoping that they can hear his call for redemption. White Americans must come to terms with the country’s historical and social reality, and unite with Black people for a hopeful future.

Dyson relates one of his own encounters with the police. While on a drive with his family, Dyson, a young father, stops the car to discipline his son by beating him.