The period from the 1980s on saw great gains in black political power, but inequality, particularly income inequality, remains great as does the overall sub-standard situation of many African Americans. Racism is frowned upon, but unfortunately is still a part of American life. There is a rising black middle class (many of whom were financially devastated by the Great Recession), while at the same time an increasing number of young black children have no fathers or are being raised by grandparents. Almost one third of young black men are incarcerated. Something is radically wrong with this picture.

Many Americans had hoped that the election of our nations first black President, and with him the appointment of high federal officials, would help the situation, but that does not seem to be the case.

This question is to be answered with no fewer than three (3) outside resources.

1. Discuss your thoughts on the issues mentioned above as well as any others that you believe to be important. What steps do you think need to be taken to solve the racial problems, including those that are financial in nature, that appear to be imbedded in our society?