Here's a breakdown of the key conflicts:
* Racial Prejudice and Discrimination: The book explicitly portrays the pervasive racism of the Jim Crow South. Lizzie and her family face prejudice and limitations in their daily lives, highlighting the injustices of segregation and white supremacy.
* Loss of Culture and Identity: The community's connection to their African heritage is under threat. The arrival of Zeely, a woman with strong ties to her African roots, challenges their acceptance of a white-imposed identity.
* Individual vs. Community: Lizzie's internal struggle to understand her identity and heritage is a central conflict. She navigates between the expectations of her community and her own personal journey of self-discovery.
* The Search for Belonging: Throughout the book, Lizzie grapples with finding her place in a society that seeks to define her based on race and prejudice.
* The Fight for Justice and Equality: The book explores the courage and resilience of the African American community, who are fighting for basic human rights and equality.
Ultimately, "Zeely" is a story about the power of resilience and the importance of holding onto one's heritage even in the face of oppression.