A Voice from the South

Cooper argues that peace can be achieved either through suppression or through the harmonious coexistence of conflicting forces. She states that “[p]rogressive peace in a nation is the result of conflict” (89). Conflict is progressive when it is fair, healthy, and stimulating. Racial conflict is inevitable when different cultures converge. However, racial difference enlivens humanity, as the dominance of one race or culture means “stagnation [and] death” (90). Through healthy racial conflict, Cooper finds the possibility of “perpetual progress.” Oppression and exclusion signify cultural decline, while finding balance between opposing forces guarantees progress and liberty. She mentions that isolationism and exclusion are obstacles to social progress.

Cooper interrogates the idea of American identity and its connection to white people and notes that Indigenous peoples are the original “Americans.” From its foundations as a country, America consisted of multiple races, and its value was always individual freedom. Cooper declares that racial superiority of white people cannot prevail in America. For her, America is the place where the final battle against bigotry and racism must be fought. She remains hopeful that freedom and democracy will prevail. She states that America has a race problem but contests the political decisions of the time toward its solution.