Although To Be a Slave depicts conditions of blacks during a time that has long passed, it raises many questions about the treatment of minorities in contemporary society. To Be a Slave shows the tragic effects that ensue when a society discriminates against people because of race, religion, or gender. To Be a Slave is a cry for equality and justice for all. If the injustices vividly depicted during the time of slavery threaten readers because they parallel injustices committed in modern times, then Lester's themes and techniques have accomplished their purpose.