What event foreshadows the dangers of racism Lily and Rosaleen face?

• A. Lily's first meeting with the Boatwrights
• B. Rosaleen's confrontation with racist white men and her assault
• C. Lily's memory of Deborah
• D. A townwide honey festival

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that real-world danger from racism is introduced early and laid bare through a sudden act of violence. When Rosaleen stands up to racist white men and is beaten, the story makes it clear that prejudice isn’t just talk—it can and does harm people physically. This moment shows Lily how precarious their safety is and why they might feel pushed to leave town and seek protection elsewhere. It also signals that racism will be a continuing, looming threat they must reckon with as they move forward. The other moments—Lily meeting the Boatwright sisters, Lily remembering Deborah, or a festive town event—signal belonging, memory, or community life more than immediate danger, so they don’t foreshadow the same peril as clearly.