Structure

Blackout is structured by Owens’ reflection on different topics that she feels are relevant to the Black community. She covers conservatism, family, feminism, overcivilization, socialism, education, media, excuses, faith, culture and slavery. Within each of these topics, Owens explores the ways in which Democratic policies hurt rather than help Black Americans. Her overarching argument throughout these themes is that Black voters are giving their allegiance to a party which has historically failed them. The left has prevented Black success through policy measures and attacks on important values such as family and faith. Throughout these discussions, she weaves in personal stories, including her upbringing in Connecticut and the hate crime she experienced in high school. By allowing the reader important insight into her path to conservatism, Owens hopes to highlight the ways in which a victim mentality -- which she argues has been pushed onto the Black community...