Racism and Caroline Cooney's Burning Up

... There are people who believe that they are not capable of racism because they have never experienced it, but when they are faced with it they realize they feel superior. Usually this is a shocking moment that forces people to re-evaluate their feelings. In Caroline Cooney's Burning Up, Austin experienced this same reaction when he was caught in a fire. He and Macey uncover a past that their grandparents hoped would stay buried. Macey tries to overcome racism during the 1950's, when desegregation was in its early phases. During these years Northerners were learning that they weren't perfect; they began realizing that they also had racist tendencies. Racism, or prejudice, is a product of pride and stubbornness, which can be overcome by understanding and working together. Throughout the history of the United States, racism has been apparent in all areas. After the Civil war, slaves believed they had finally gained the

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