We're in a period of denial about the extent to which racism still exists as a structural phenomenon. It was just so evident in this storm. Even in the language people used.

The denial of racism is a form of racism itself.

Every institutional sector you can point to, I'll show you a racial disparity. When you have a racially structured system, there are more black people at the bottom because there's a dual system that sorts them at the bottom.

And that is how we are. By strength of will we cut off our inner intuitive knowledge from admitted consciousness. This causes a state of dread, or apprehension, which makes the blow ten times worse when it does fall.

You can almost create a formula for it. The greater the denial at the front end, the longer the term of penance to get free on the back side.

The great law of denial belongs to the powerful forces of life, whether the case be one of coolish baked beans, or an unrequited affection.