Quote: "A Nation Of Cowards" On Issues Of Race

Though this nation has proudly thought of itself as an ethnic melting pot, in things racial we have always been and continue to be, in too many ways, essentially a nation of cowards. - USAG Eric Holder (2009)

Comments

[Jeff]

I read your entire article and indeed, it is sad that we have a Black history month as we still remain a divided country, unable to discuss race. I work with college students and when we discuss any issue that is race based, a majority of the course just withdraws, while others remain very outspoken. I would not point this out if I had not seen it time and time again, which only supports your point that we have a way to go before we become one America, and while I may not see it in my lifetime, I would so very much like to see it in my child's lifetime. We should be able to discuss the issues without fear of reprisals, but most non-minority students are terrified of writing or saying something that could be construed as politically incorrect. I wish this were not the case, but it is what I have seen based on my experience.
This was a good article, made me think about a few issues that I had not considered, which is always a good thing.

[Suzanne]

I agree, this was a good article filled with insights many educators and students experience: that we live in a melting pot, but often remain unaware of others' cultures, afraid to learn or question. While the article focuses on African Americans, it is important to remember all the other cultures who have gone through difficulties and are finding their way in society. Although issues such as these have been covered in breadth throughout my educational experiences, it was not until my doctorate program that the study of multiculturalism was encouraged in depth through ways that would make students uncomfortable; ways that would allow us to truly empathize with others. Learning about cultures should not occur solely in a particular month, but every day. Furthermore teachers must better understand multiculturalism in order to cultivate open-minded, understanding, and well-rounded students.