Malcom X in “Learning to Read” had taught himself to read write. Through copying the dictionary, Malcom X learned the definitions of words and had learned to write exquisitely. After learning to read, he resorted to all the books he could get his hands on. He educated himself on a variety of topics such as geography and science, but what interested him most was history. Malcom X was captivated by the history of African Americans and learned about the oppressions done to the African American communities throughout American history. He learned about the slave trade and various rebellions and fights that took place. Malcolm X realized that the history of blacks was not well-preserved in books and he believes that it was done deliberately by white…show more content… It is where cultural meanings—our very notions of who we are and how we see each other, not only in which we understand and discuss issues of gender, race and class. And, as ever, it is crucial for understanding how these norms and power structures have been negotiated, struggled with, and resisted.
Zirin agrees that athletes should express their political opinions. He starts his essay by alluding to the Miami Heat’s support for Trayvon Martin, who was unjustly killed because he seemed “suspicious.” Zirin then provides other examples of how athletes supported the oppressed African American communities. This proves that Zirin agrees that politics and sports should mix. Under the second header, Zirin mentions how the Phoenix Suns supported the undocumented Mexican immigrants on Cinco de Mayo in 2010. He provides many examples of activism executed by famous sport teams to support his views and mentions how their political stances affected the minds of the public and the world of professional sports. Zirin mentions, “These small acts of solidarity may seem negligible—but they matter. Whether we like it or not, athletes are role models; it’s worth asking, then, what are they in fact modeling?” (20). Zirin believes that politics in sports can result in positive changes, even if it seems little. Towards the end, Zirin mentions that politics and athletics can be a dangerous combo. He gave the example of Chris Douglas-Roberts whose reputation was tarnished because of his conflicting views with the public on Bin Laden’s death. Roberts wasn’t ecstatic due to Bin Laden’s death because it costed the United States dearly and because of that, he was attacked by critics and insulted by the public. Overall, Zirin believes that politics in sports is a good way to bring positive changes in America. It can help support oppressed minorities
