"In this country American means white. Everybody else has to hyphenate"

This quote by Toni Morrison speaks to the systemic racism and discrimination that exists in the United States. It highlights the reality that white people are seen as the default in this country, while people of color are viewed as "other" and are expected to recognize themselves with a hyphenated label. This quote is a suggestion that the United States was constructed on the backs of people of color, yet they are still dealt with as second-class citizens. It is a call to action to acknowledge the systemic bigotry that exists in this country and to work towards developing a more fair society. This quote is a powerful tip that we need to continue to fight for racial justice and equity in the United States.