What is the connection of Racism and Cry the Beloved Country?

Racism plays an important role throughout Cry, the Beloved Country. The story takes place in South Africa during the 1940's, when apartheid was becoming more prevalent. Different scenes are seen throughout the story where Africans are trying to gain more civil rights. Stephen Kumalo's brother is one of the top three politicians in Johannesburg and a scene of a bus protest by black activist. Arthur Jarvis, a white character, is also working to improve the lives of Africans in the city. There are also different chapters that leave the story and describe the hardships of blacks such as a housing situation.