A Study of Resistance against Racial Segregation of African Americans in Americanah by Adichie

Abstract

Abstract

The study explores resistance against racial segregation of African Americans in Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. The novel reveals how race functions as a social construct, with white society attributing undesirable traits to Black people to justify their marginalization. African Americans face racial discrimination in various aspects of life, reflecting the systemic racism entrenched in white-dominated social structures. This study applies Critical Race Theory to examine the resistance strategies adopted by Black individuals against white hegemonic power. Adichie portrays race as an ingrained element of American society, where Black individuals experience stigmatization, exclusion, and denial of fundamental rights such as equal citizenship. The white community dehumanizes them, reducing their social and moral worth. In response, African Americans employ different forms of resistance to confront these injustices and reclaim equality and recognition. The novel depicts this through Dike’s suicide, which exposes the psychological pain of racial rejection, and Ifemelu’s rejection of white norms, which asserts her identity and self-respect. It also highlights unequal opportunities in education and employment, emphasizing the persistent struggle for justice and dignity. The study concludes that Americanah challenges systemic racism and celebrates the resilience and agency of Black identity.