The bustling city of Atlanta, with its six million inhabitants, served as the starting point for Grayson Perry's road trip through the American South. Perry was drawn to Atlanta because of its reputation as the "capital of Black America." Here, he delved into the contentious topic of race and explored the cultural divides through the eyes of the city's African-American community. Atlanta, known as Wakanda to its residents, symbolizes the growth and progress of black America, with a rising number of affluent black households and a thriving black middle class. Perry met fascinating individuals like entrepreneur Eric Gordon and radio talk show host Isaac Hayes III, who shed light on the city's rich cultural landscape and the challenges of navigating a society still grappling with racial tensions. Atlanta proved to be a powerful backdrop for Perry's exploration of America's complex divisions and the lessons it holds for all of us.

Perry's journey through the American South led him to the nation's capital, Washington DC. While Atlanta represented the booming new mecca of African-American life, DC provided a glimpse into an older idea of African-American success. Perry visited the home of Dr. Carlotta Miles, a member of the city's historic black elite, whose family's achievements span generations. Despite their accomplishments, the Miles family acknowledged that being successful doesn't shield them from the challenges of racism. Perry engaged in thought-provoking conversations about race and identity with the black elite of DC, delving into the nuances of race relations in a society that still grapples with inequality. Through these encounters, Perry gained a deeper understanding of the diverse forms of African-American success and the ongoing struggle for true equality in America.

Perry ventured into the affluent suburban counties surrounding Washington DC and discovered Price George's County, Maryland, one of the most affluent majority black counties in America. Here, he teed off with the local chapter of 100 Black Men, a mentoring organization for young African-American men. The golf course served as a backdrop for conversations about success, inequality, and the realities faced by African-American men in today's society. Despite their achievements, Perry found that even successful individuals like his golfing companions, Mike and Emerick, still encounter discrimination and are burdened by the constant need to prove themselves in a society shaped by systemic racism. The conversations on the golf course shed light on the experiences of African-American men and highlighted the ongoing struggle for true equality in America.

Perry returned to Atlanta to visit Morehouse College, one of the premier historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in America. Morehouse has a rich history and has produced notable alumni such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Perry attended the traditional welcoming event for new students, experiencing the sense of brotherhood and empowerment that permeates the campus. Morehouse represents hope for young African-American men, offering them access to a first-rate education and the tools to succeed in a society that often marginalizes them. The college serves as a beacon of African-American achievement and showcases the potential for a brighter, more inclusive future. Perry's encounter with the students at Morehouse College reinforced his belief that diversity and equality are essential for a thriving America.