12EN2 English BOS

#blacklivesmatter
TASK: Analyze the rhetorical devices used in the speech 1 below and describe their effect on the
audience.

Ladies and gentlemen,

As we reflect on the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the #BlackLivesMatter
movement, we find ourselves at a critical juncture in history. The ideas and principles
championed by both movements intersect in powerful ways, reminding us of the ongoing
struggle for racial justice and equality.

The #BlackLivesMatter movement, born out of the pain and frustration of countless black
individuals who have suffered at the hands of systemic racism, calls upon us to confront the
harsh realities of our society. It demands accountability for the injustices perpetrated against
black communities, from police brutality to economic inequality to disparities in healthcare
and education.

At its core, the #BlackLivesMatter movement asserts the inherent value and dignity of black
lives in a world that too often fails to recognize their worth. It challenges us to acknowledge
the privilege that many of us enjoy and to confront the biases and prejudices that continue
to permeate our institutions and our culture.

Dr. King's teachings of nonviolent resistance and the power of love resonate deeply with the
ethos of the #BlackLivesMatter movement. Like Dr. King, the leaders of this movement
understand that true change comes not through violence or hatred, but through compassion,
empathy, and a commitment to justice.

Today, as we stand on the shoulders of giants like Dr. King and the activists of the
#BlackLivesMatter movement, we are called to action. We must heed their call for justice and
equality, and we must work tirelessly to dismantle the systems of oppression that continue to
marginalize and disenfranchise black communities.

Let us march forward together, inspired by the courage and determination of those who have
come before us. Let us amplify the voices of the marginalized and the oppressed, and let us
build a world where every life is valued, every voice is heard, and every dream is within reach.

Thank you for your attention.

1 This speech has never been delivered. It is a figment of imagination.

12EN2 English BOS
#blacklivesmatter

1. Anaphora: This is the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of

successive clauses or sentences. An example can be found in the repeated use
of the phrase "Let us" ("Let us march forward together," "Let us be guided,"
"Let us honor"). Anaphora creates a sense of unity and urgency, rallying the
audience around common goals and ideals.
2. Parallelism: This rhetorical device involves using similar grammatical
structures or patterns to emphasize key points. For instance, the repetition of
the phrase "justice and equality" in the sentence "We must heed their call for
justice and equality" underscores the importance of these principles.
Parallelism adds rhythm and balance to the speech, making it more
memorable and impactful.
3. Alliteration: Alliteration is the repetition of consonant sounds at the
beginning of words in close proximity. An example can be seen in the phrase
"shoulder to shoulder," where the repetition of the "sh" sound creates a sense
of solidarity and unity. Alliteration adds a lyrical quality to the speech,
enhancing its rhetorical appeal and making it more engaging for the audience.
4. Metaphor: Metaphor is used to make a comparison between two seemingly
unrelated things, often to convey a deeper meaning or evoke vivid imagery. In
the sentence "Let us be guided by his words, his actions, and his example as
we work to dismantle the systems of oppression," the idea of being "guided"
by Dr. King's legacy is metaphorical. It paints a picture of following in his
footsteps and draws a parallel between his leadership and the ongoing
struggle for justice. Metaphor helps to make abstract concepts more tangible
and relatable for the audience, fostering a deeper emotional connection.
5. Quotations: Incorporating quotations from influential figures like Dr. Martin
Luther King Jr. adds credibility and authority to the speech. By referencing Dr.
King's famous quote, "The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends
toward justice," the speaker reinforces the message of hope and perseverance.
Quotations serve to inspire and motivate the audience, reminding them of the
wisdom of past leaders and the enduring principles of justice and equality.

Overall, these rhetorical devices work together to enhance the persuasive power of
the speech, capturing the audience's attention, stirring their emotions, and
compelling them to take action in support of the #BlackLivesMatter movement.