In her book "Becoming," Michelle Obama reflects on the misconceptions surrounding Barack Obama's election, where some claimed it marked the dawn of a "postracial" America. She emphasizes that this optimistic view was misguided, highlighting the persistent issues of racism that still plague the nation. Despite a historical milestone, skin color continued to significantly influence people's experiences and perceptions.

Michelle also points out that while the nation fixated on the dangers of terrorism, it often failed to confront the underlying racism and tribalism that were undermining social cohesion. This commentary serves as a reminder of the complexities of American society, where progress in some areas does not eliminate deep-seated issues in others.