A teacher's practice is influenced by personal, institutional, historical, and societal experiences. Teachers are expected to manage how content is delivered in a classroom setting. As well a teacher is managing their own emotional and internal narratives around complex issues such as race, racism, and oppression in the classroom. By exploring the works of Ta-Nehisi Coates this article seeks to set forth applicable pedagogical practices designed to help students better understand historical patterns of oppression. Based on observations and direct instruction, this article also adds to the discussion of how teacher practice directly shapes and influences student experiences.