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Summary of Presentation to the Race Advisory Board
Dr. Derald Wing Sue
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Summary of Presentation to the Race Advisory Board
Dr. Derald Wing Sue
I believe that if we are to become a fair, just, and equitable society, we must begin to
individually and institutionally address one of the most divisive concepts in our society.
President Clinton's call for a constructive dialogue on "race" represents a major step in
that direction. It will succeed, however, only if we are able to acknowledge our biases
and preconceived notions; to be open and honest with one another; to hear the hopes,
fears, and concerns of all groups in this society; to recognize how prejudice and
discrimination hurts everyone; and to seek common solutions that allow for equal access
and opportunities.
To accomplish the cultural mosaic of "One America" means several important things.
First, overcoming our biased cultural conditioning means that each and everyone of us
must confront ourselves. We must have a willingness to address internal issues related to
personal belief systems, behaviors, and emotions when interacting with other racial
groups. On an individual level, we must experience and learn about race and racism in
order to check out the validity of our assumptions and understanding. Suggestions for
how White Americans and other racial/ethnic minority groups can change individually
will be given.
Second, to allow for equal access and opportunity in institutions (education, business and industry), we must attempt to change, refine, instill or create new policies, programs, practices, and structures which are fair to all groups. My work on institutions suggests several conditions which would facilitate and help organizations in that direction.
