Mr. Julian Manny's father, Julian Rivers, reveals to Manny and Justyce that he had been subjected to a racial slur by one of his own employees earlier that day. This powerful admission takes place during an afternoon conversation he has with the two boys.
Julian Rivers shares this deeply personal incident to illustrate the pervasive and often insidious nature of racial prejudice, even for individuals who hold positions of power or influence. His revelation underscores that racism is a persistent reality that affects people across all socio-economic strata. By recounting a direct experience with a racial slur from someone under his employment, Julian aims to provide Manny and Justyce with a tangible example of the discrimination he still faces.
This candid sharing serves multiple purposes:
- Highlighting Ongoing Racism: It demonstrates that racial slurs and prejudice are not relics of the past but continue to be a painful part of contemporary life.
- Personalizing the Struggle: Julian's willingness to be vulnerable about his own experience helps to make the abstract concept of racism concrete and relatable for the younger generation.
- Fostering Understanding: The conversation encourages Manny and Justyce to grasp the complex layers of racial injustice, even when it comes from unexpected sources.
Here is a breakdown of the key elements of Mr. Rivers' revelation:
| Aspect of Revelation | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who Revealed It | Julian Rivers (Mr. Manny's Father) |
| To Whom | Manny and Justyce |
| What Was Revealed | One of his employees had called him a racial slur. |
| Context | Shared to demonstrate the enduring reality of racial prejudice. |
This pivotal moment in the narrative emphasizes the subtle yet impactful forms of discrimination that individuals, including those in positions of authority, continue to navigate.
