What societal issue does Lorraine Hansberry tackle in "A Raisin in the Sun"?

Lorraine Hansberry's "A Raisin in the Sun" primarily addresses the issue of racial inequality. The play centers around the Younger family, an African American family that is striving for a better life in a racially segregated Chicago neighborhood. Through the characters' struggles—particularly as they confront systemic racism, housing discrimination, and economic barriers—Hansberry highlights the harsh realities faced by African Americans in the mid-20th century. The play brings to light the aspirations of the family, juxtaposed with society's oppressive structures preventing them from achieving their dreams.

While the themes of women's rights, class conflict, and environmental destruction may appear in various forms within the narrative, they are secondary to the overarching theme of racial inequality. Each character's personal journey and aspirations are deeply rooted in their social identity and the impact of racial discrimination. This central focus on the struggle against racism captures the essence of the play and reflects Hansberry's intent to illuminate the experiences of black Americans during her time.