In Octavia Butler’s Kindred, readers are taken on a journey through time as we witness the struggles of protagonist Dana Franklin and her husband Kevin. Set in both the modern day and pre-Civil War era, this novel provides a unique perspective into how racism has shaped identity over generations (Butler 1979). Racism has long been used to divide people by creating artificial hierarchies based on race that often lead to feelings of alienation or inferiority for those affected (Tuana 2005). This sense of otherness is something that Dana experiences first hand when she is repeatedly forced to confront oppressive systems throughout her travels between past and present.

As Dana moves back and forth between two different times she finds herself feeling more connected with African American culture despite having grown up in an integrated household. While living in her own time, she is able to make sense of slavery’s role in shaping society however things become much more real once she is thrust into antebellum Maryland where oppression reaches a whole new level (Butler 1979). Here Dana understands firsthand the destructive power structure endemic within racial inequality which forces individuals like Rufus into submission no matter their individual talents or capabilities.

Dana’s experiences ultimately lead towards greater self-awareness as they force her to confront uncomfortable truths while also providing an opportunity for growth and understanding. As such it becomes clear why racism can have such lasting effects not just at the personal level, but also societal one since its presence persists even years after it was legally abolished. Ultimately, although we may never be completely free from its influence, we can use books like Kindred to gain insight into how identity can be shaped by our environment, enabling us to better respond should similar issues arise again in future.