Themes: Systemic Racism
While Bud is, for the most part, spared overt person-to-person racism throughout his journey, Christopher Paul Curtis does not shy away from portraying the limitations and dangers imposed by systemic racism on the Black community during the Great Depression.
There are two instances where this disparity is made especially clear. When Lefty Lewis first meets Bud in chapter 10, Lefty is most concerned with Bud’s safety in the especially racist town they’re in. As a young Black boy, Bud isn’t safe in public in this area. “In fact,” Lefty tells Bud, “what is definite is that neither one of us should be out here this time of night.”
Later, when Bud meets Herman E. Calloway and the Dusky Devastators of the Depression, he is introduced to the structural and regulatory impacts of systemic racism. “Mr. C. has always got a white fella in the band, for practical reasons,” Steady Eddie tells him in chapter 18. Despite his financial success and wide renown as a musician, it is illegal for Herman E. Calloway to own land in certain areas. Dirty Deed, the piano player, is named that for a reason—he holds the nominal title to some of the band’s property, because as a White man he has the sole legal privilege to do so. This, Steady Eddie tells Bud, also allows them to send him out alone to make business arrangements with people who wouldn’t hire the band if they knew the musicians were Black.
Expert Q&A
Why was it significant for Herman E Calloway to have a white band member in Bud, Not Buddy?
Having a white band member was significant for Herman E. Calloway due to the racial prejudices and discriminatory laws of the 1930s. It was illegal for African Americans to own property in certain areas, so Calloway used Dirty Deed, the white band member, to hold property titles. Additionally, many white clients would not hire a black band, so Deed helped secure gigs. This strategic arrangement allowed the band to perform and showcase their musical talents effectively.
Why does a family in Hooverville in Bud, Not Buddy sit apart from everyone else?
A family in Hooverville sits apart from everyone else because they refuse to accept help from black people, despite being invited to join the communal meal. This reflects their racist attitudes, as they claim they "ain't in need of a handout" because they are white. This incident highlights the pervasive racism of the Great Depression era, adding historical authenticity to the narrative.
What advice does Lefty Lewis give to Bud about potential dangers for a young brown-skinned boy alone in Michigan in "Bud, Not Buddy"?
In Bud, Not Buddy, why might the Hooverville's white residents refuse help?
In "Bud, Not Buddy," the white residents of the Hooverville might refuse help due to racial prejudice. Set in the 1930s, the novel depicts a time when racial segregation and discriminatory attitudes were prevalent. Despite their dire situation, the white family rejects assistance from black people, feeling it beneath them, as indicated by their refusal of food and blankets, asserting, "we ain't in need of a handout" due to their racial bias.
How and why were the boys treated a certain way upon arriving in Hooverville?
Upon arriving in Hooverville, the boys were treated well because the residents understood their plight. The initial group of men they met were friendly and explained that everyone there was in similar circumstances—tired, hungry, and uncertain about the future. The community spirit meant they welcomed the boys and directed them to food, requiring only that they help with kitchen duties in return. This mutual support system ensured everyone contributed to the community's sustenance.
What evidence suggests that racism exists among the homeless people Bud meets in Hooverville?
Racism among the homeless in Hooverville is suggested when a white family, despite being in need, refuses help from others because they are "white people." This response highlights a lingering sense of racial superiority, even in dire circumstances where all individuals are united by poverty. This incident indicates that racial prejudice persists, as the need to feel superior prevents the man from accepting assistance, despite the shared hardship among the diverse group in Hooverville.
How did public officials respond to the Hoovervilles in Bud, Not Buddy?
In "Bud, Not Buddy," public officials respond to Hoovervilles by attempting to stop people from illegally boarding trains. When Bud and Bugs visit a Hooverville, they find a temporary, friendly community. However, the next morning, public officials arrive and violently dismantle the camp, destroying it in their efforts to prevent train-hopping. This response highlights the officials' harsh measures against those seeking refuge and mobility during the Great Depression.
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