RACE IN AMERICA:
PERCEPTIONS AND PARAMETERS
Our consideration of issues suggested by the U.S. national dialogue begins with some basic questions regarding race and diversity and the degree to which progress has been made in achieving social justice. Perceptions differ; still, each of the presentations in this section is relevant. Ronald Takaki points to a racial framework that goes beyond a black-white boundary, and notes the climate of unfinished business within which President Clinton delivered his One America address in June 1997. Abigail and Stephan Thernstrom stress the gains of the past 40 years, particularly within black America, that frequently are overshadowed by flashpoints of crisis. Ronald Ferguson examines the pivotal role economics has played in the struggle for equality. Finally, a recent survey by the Gallup Organization indicates the evolution of attitudes over the past four decades, and a selection of current statistical data provides a snapshot of the challenges that persist.
A DIFFERENT MIRROR:
TO SEE THE UNITED STATES AS A MULTIRACIAL SOCIETY
By Ronald Takaki
THE OVERLOOKED STORY
By Abigail Thernstrom and Stephan Thernstrom
SHIFTING CHALLENGES:
FIFTY YEARS OF ECONOMIC CHANGE
TOWARD BLACK-WHITE EARNINGS EQUALITY
By Ronald P. Ferguson
GALLUP POLL: PROGRESS IN BLACK/WHITE
RELATIONS,
BUT RACE IS STILL AN ISSUE
Prepared by Charlotte Astor
U.S. Society &
Values
USIA Electronic Journal, Vol. 2, No. 3, August
1997