As a Jewish woman who grew up in a diverse multi-racial, multi-ethnic community and who has spent her professional career serving those communities, I have come to believe that racism is not an immutable characteristic of American life. Much of my career has been devoted to developing better understanding and bridging gaps between people of different racial and ethnic … [Read more...] about Is Racism Permanent?(November-December 1993 P&R Issue)
Symposium Responses
Is Racism Permanent? (November-December 1993 P&R Issue)
There is a growing sense within the minority community that the condition of African Americans has not improved and, worse still, that it will not get any better. An increasing number of minority thinkers voice this sentiment. Indeed one scholar, whom I greatly respect, has not only stated that racism is a permanent fixture on the American landscape, but that equality itself … [Read more...] about Is Racism Permanent? (November-December 1993 P&R Issue)
Is Racism Permanent? (November-December 1993 P&R Issue)
Despite the progress of African Americans and other minorities in the last three decades, racism remains an enduring feature of American society and, therefore, still requires close attention and action. By racism, I mean the combination of prejudice and power that enables members of one race or ethnic group to oppress another. Today, however, efforts to combat racism should … [Read more...] about Is Racism Permanent? (November-December 1993 P&R Issue)
Is Racism Permanent? (November-December 1993 P&R Issue)
The durability of racism is inescapable. The charge of its permanence is too scary; I don't like acting-and living with such little hope. "Bearing witness" is much more difficult stance than activities that emerges from the belief that our efforts will produce significant change. Can emotional hope and hard-headed analysis be reconciled? Racism's durability does not imply … [Read more...] about Is Racism Permanent? (November-December 1993 P&R Issue)
Is Racism Permanent? (November-December 1993 P&R Issue)
I think the term "permanent racism" is unacceptable, not because I disagree with the assertion that racial inequality is a persistent feature of U.S. society, but because the choice of words makes racial injustice appear immutable and the goal of meaningful progressive social change appear unachievable. My reading of U.S. history, and an understanding of my family's past, tell … [Read more...] about Is Racism Permanent? (November-December 1993 P&R Issue)
