From Backlash to Breakthrough: Why Social Change Is Never Simple (And How to Keep Moving Forward)

Understanding the Cycles of Resistance and Awakening in America’s Long Struggle

Why does every leap toward justice seem to trigger a wave of resistance? Isabel Wilkerson’s 'Caste' offers a powerful answer: because social hierarchies are defended not just by law, but by identity, fear, and the stories we tell ourselves. Every period of progress—from the abolition of slavery to the civil rights movement—has been followed by backlash, as those who benefit from the old order fight to restore their place.

Wilkerson traces these cycles, showing how symbols like flags and monuments become battlegrounds in the struggle for belonging. But she also highlights the power of awakening: when individuals and communities recognize injustice and refuse to comply, their courage can inspire others and spark broader movements for change. The process is never easy or straightforward, but history shows that even the strongest walls can be broken down by the steady force of empathy and collective action.



Wilkerson’s message is clear: change is possible, but it requires persistence, honesty, and a willingness to confront both the past and the present. By understanding the cycles of backlash and awakening, we can find the strength to keep moving forward—together. 2 4