Table of ContentsIntroductionBackgroundOpening Question and Rhetorical QuestionRhetorical DevicesInspiring ActionConclusionIntroductionImagine yourself standing in front of a large auditorium, the weight of the world on your shoulders and a message burning within you. You have a story to tell, a truth to convey, and a call to action that could potentially change the course of history. This is the position Jesse Williams found himself in when he delivered his powerful speech at the 2016 BET Awards. In this essay, we will embark on an analysis of Jesse Williams' speech, unveiling its meaning, its rhetorical devices and its impact on the public. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essayBackgroundBefore we delve into the speech itself, let's first understand the context in which it was delivered. The 2016 BET Awards, a platform that celebrates the achievements of the African American community, gave Jesse Williams the opportunity to address the pressing issues of racial inequality, police brutality and systemic oppression. As an actor, activist and educator, Williams had already established himself as a prominent voice in the fight for social justice. However, his speech at the BET Awards catapulted him to cultural icon status. Opening Question and Rhetoric From the beginning of his speech, Williams captivates his audience with his eloquence and unwavering conviction. He begins with a rhetorical question: “What is this price?” ". This question immediately calls out to the public, forcing them to question the very basis of the ceremony they are witnessing. Through this simple but profound question, Williams challenges the status quo and forces the audience to confront their own complicity in the perpetuation of inequality. Rhetorical Devices Throughout his speech, Williams uses a variety of rhetorical devices to get his point across. One such device is the use of vivid images. He paints a picture of a world rife with injustice when he says, "We've floated this country on credit for centuries, yo, and we're done watching and waiting while this invention called whiteness uses and abuses us.” By juxtaposing the concept of “floating on credit” with the notion of “whiteness,” Williams creates a powerful metaphor that exposes the historical exploitation of Black lives for the benefit of White privilege. Another notable rhetorical device employed by Williams is the use of repetition. . He repeatedly emphasizes the importance of black lives, stating, "Just because we're magical doesn't mean we're not real." This repetition serves to reinforce its central message, challenging the dehumanization of black individuals and affirming their inherent worth. Williams' use of repetition creates a rhythmic cadence that resonates with the audience, leaving a lasting impact on their hearts and minds. In addition to his rhetorical devices, Williams masterfully incorporates personal anecdotes and historical references to strengthen his argument. He shares the story of Tamir Rice, a 12-year-old boy who was fatally shot by police while playing with a toy gun. By humanizing Tamir and recounting the tragic details of his death, Williams reminds audiences of the real-life consequences of systemic racism. He also brings up the names of historical figures such as Nat Turner and Harriet Tubman, drawing parallels between the struggles of the past and the current fight for justice. Inspiring Action Perhaps the most powerful aspect of Jesse Williams' speech is its ability to inspire..