Ep 8. Chapter VIII

Tensions in the aftermath of the 'Pastiche' party continue to escalate on Winchester's campus in Dear White People season 2 episode 8, entitled Chapter VIII. In the episode, society's upper echelons try to downplay the importance of the party instead of attending to the issues it raises. While Lionel finds his cause at the side of Moses, Brooke rallies her friends to dig deeper into the motive behind the administration's response. The lines between ally and enemy get blurred as Lionel's group plans a protest in response to an administration that seems unperturbed by their anger and hurt. The episodes also sees more flashbacks of Sam as she finds herself trapped and isolated from her community who can't comprehend the weight of the grief that she is carrying. In the wake of all the drama unfolding, Sam is forced to make difficult decisions about where her heart truly lies.

Chapter VIII tackles familiar themes from the show such as institutionalized racism and the power of community in fighting against it. The episode demonstrates, once again, that those who enjoy privileges may not be interested in giving fair access to those who didn't have it. The show's complexity comes from its acknowledgment of the multi-pronged systems of oppression that people of color face, and in Chapter VIII, it explores that dynamic even further.

It's no secret that protests in response to racial inequality on college campuses are not new. In Dear White People, the viewers get to see the thinking and planning that goes on behind each protest 'action', as well as the consequences that come with that. The episode shows that peaceful, well-planned protests can still get met with brutality. And for those who have been victims of harassment or brutality, finding outlets for one's anger can also be complicated. For instance, it explores the position of Lionel as one who knows the weight of the privilege he carried and seeks to help his community, despite the consequences. Similarly, the episode makes a meaningful commentary on how some white faculty members and students defend tenets of white supremacy that others try to dismantle.

The episode is both sharp and witty. Viewers can't help but feel a sense of dread as the protesters deal with police brutality. But then you also can't help but laugh at some of the witty lines throughout the show. The writers manage to balance the show's serious themes with a light touch of humor. It's a remarkable feat, as it keeps the audience engaged during the heavier parts of the show. The show's overall quality remains high, with performances, especially from Logan Browning, remaining exceptional.

The flashbacks of Sam (played exceptionally by Logan Browning) help the audience connect with her character. She carries a heavy burden in this episode and as the situation escalates, so does her anger. In the end, viewers root for her as she finally makes a decision that's been a long time coming. It's one of the quieter emotional moments in an episode that's filled with chaos.

Overall, Chapter VIII is another fantastic episode in an already stunning season. Viewers are once again reminded of the power of race and privilege and the struggles of POC to be seen and heard. Dear White People maintains its stellar quality in storytelling as it continues to confront its audience with the realities of what it's like to live in a world that's hostile to marginalized groups. The end of the episode is gripping, and viewers cannot wait for what's next.