Binge Talk: Raising Kanan - An Ode to Raquel Thomas

If you are not caught up on Raising Kanan then I suggest you still read this article later. It has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions for me watching the characters' paranoia unravel quicker than the plot twist. The one person I’d like to acknowledge for this piece is the Queen Pin herself, Raquel Thomas. Don’t ever disrespect that woman. 

This Queen is the epitome of a survivalist. A Black woman’s story that resonates with others in pieces or as a whole, regardless it is relatable. Raquel learned how to hustle from an older boyfriend which is more common than people may think. Her thirst wasn't just drowned in love for Def Con but the enticing intricacies of this ancient hustle we know as drug dealing. Raquel was taught to not only hold her own, but to take control of a market to be able to provide for her family. Raquel learned the game like the bible. As we all can garner from the legality of this career field, there are chances that can get you killed or locked in prison for x amount of years. With all of those elements involved, Raquel was fearless. She even shared the wealth with her brothers. Deep in love she got pregnant with her only child, Kanan. Now she had to balance motherhood, business, and family affairs. 

Fast forward to Season 4 now, and I am so stressed for her. Raquel’s ambition is worthy of patience. She wants to become a supplier! A top tier name in the game. Instead of falling into the unnecessary bloodshed speared by her Italian connects, she wants to make a power move. Her career field has many stressors so I can see why she would be so snappy but she said sorry more than once to more than one person. When Lou needed rehab she could have killed him, but didn’t. When Marvin wanted to go on a killing spree, she didn’t bat an eyelash. Yes the bloodtrail annoyed her but she still stood by her brother's mistakes. When Kanan decided to sell on his own and kill his partner, Nique’s brother. She blindly eliminated any loose ends. That same loose end wanted Marvin to take the wrap for the family’s illegal reputation. It was cold but she made a move to protect them.

Raquel couldn’t even enjoy falling in love. The closest she got to finding a man that understood her all the way through was Nique. You could see it in her eyes. However, due to him almost being killed by his own brother, Nique was laced with too much paranoia to even recognize it. The tension was too hot to let something as beautiful and natural as that thrive. 

With all that being said, Raquel Thomas may not be perfect but she worked through every position she was pegged into with integrity and love for her family. If she gets killed, I will be so hurt. That woman had to handle some tough decisions but never changed up on anyone. All she wanted was peace of mind, steady business and keeping her family intact. 

Thank you Patina Miller.