Let me just say that to imagine racism does not exist is imagination. And to imagine that it does not create its own set of problems is true imagination. So let's not imagine that racism is gone, extinguished, because it's not. We are seeing this in the top levels of the political arena, and we are seeing it very, very plainly.

Phylicia Rashad’s quote, "Let me just say that to imagine racism does not exist is imagination. And to imagine that it does not create its own set of problems is true imagination. So let's not imagine that racism is gone, extinguished, because it's not. We are seeing this in the top levels of the political arena, and we are seeing it very, very plainly," addresses the persistent and undeniable presence of racism in society. Rashad argues that pretending racism is no longer an issue is itself a product of imagination, not grounded in reality. She challenges the idea that racism has been eradicated, urging people to confront the truth that it continues to create significant social, political, and personal challenges.

By stating that to believe racism doesn’t exist is "true imagination," Rashad critiques the tendency to ignore or downplay the ongoing impact of racism. She suggests that such a belief is not based on reality, but rather on a fantasy that overlooks the lived experiences of marginalized groups. The phrase "create its own set of problems" emphasizes the profound and systemic issues that racism perpetuates, suggesting that racism is not just an isolated problem but one that reverberates through various aspects of society, including politics and governance.

Rashad’s mention of the political arena is particularly significant, as it highlights how racism still manifests in the highest levels of leadership and decision-making. By pointing out that racism is "very, very plainly" visible, she underscores the visible and active role that racism plays in politics, reinforcing that it is not something that has faded or disappeared, but something that is still very much present and affecting public life.

Ultimately, the quote serves as a powerful reminder to reject complacency and denial when it comes to racism. Rashad calls for a more honest reckoning with the realities of racism, urging people to see it for what it is and recognize its ongoing influence in all aspects of society, particularly in the political sphere.