IndexIntroductionContextOpening and Rhetorical QuestionRhetorical DevicesInspirational ActionConclusionIntroductionImagine standing in front of a large auditorium, with 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 was 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, revealing its meaning, rhetorical devices, and its impact on the public. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayContextBefore delving into the speech itself, let's 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 leading voice in the fight for social justice. However, his speech at the BET Awards catapulted him into the realm of cultural icon. Opening and Rhetorical Question From the beginning of his speech, Williams captivates his audience with his eloquence and unwavering conviction. It opens with a rhetorical question, asking, "What is this prize?" This question immediately draws the audience in, forcing them to question the very foundation of the ceremony they are participating in. Through this simple yet profound question, Williams challenges the status quo and forces audiences to confront their own complicity in perpetuating inequality. Rhetorical Devices Throughout his speech, Williams uses a variety of rhetorical devices to drive home his message. One of these tools is the use of vivid images. He paints a picture of a world plagued by injustice when he says, “We've been floating this country on credit for centuries, yo, and we're done watching and waiting while this invention called whiteness uses us and abuses us.” By juxtaposing the concept of “credit floating” 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 by 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 value and 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 killed 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. She also invokes the names of historical figures such as Nat Turner and Harriet Tubman, drawing parallels between the struggles of the past and the ongoing fight for justice in the present. Inspiring Action Perhaps the most powerful aspect of Jesse Williams' speech is its ability to inspire action. Through his words, he not only raises awareness but also lights a fire in the hearts of his people.