Caste: The Origin of Our Discontents

By Isabel Wilkerson

In August 2020, Oprah Winfrey gave this book to every CEO on the Fortune 500 because she believed those in positions of power should read it. Caste (Random House, 2020) is a nonfiction masterpiece that shows how certain groups stigmatize and dehumanize others. It becomes clear that the comparison between American society today and other caste systems over time accurately reflects both systemic problems and the historic marginalization Black people face. Wilkerson is indeed putting the correct label—caste—on America’s biggest societal fissure. She beautifully lays out a clear path toward progress and solutions. The final chapter left me hopeful for a brighter future and wondering if we’ll ever see Wilkerson run for public office, as she surely deserves an Oprah-size audience.