Published: April 05, 2008 05:35 pm            

FLASHPOINT: Addressing key questions will help start dialog on race

Sen. and presidential hopeful Barack Obama’s speech in Philadelphia addressed several racial issues he believes exist in America. His speech is in response to the controversial statements from his pastor that has rankled many.

What are the truths, you may ask, regarding racial issues between whites and blacks, and whose perception is accepted? Is there truly a disconnection between black and white America? Presidential hopeful Obama suggests that we talk about real issues that keep us disconnected, and I agree. I encourage those willing (and you may have to step outside your comfort zone) to start opening dialog within your homes, employment environment, churches and schools about racial issues that we are leery to have.

What questions may one have to ask? Glad you asked! I just have a few of my own. May I?

Is there a difference between one being prejudiced opposed to being a racist? Are Sundays still the most segregated day of the week, and if so, why are they still? Why is the black community divided? Does the majority of black people still blame white people for holding them back? Is there diversity within your working environment? Why does there seem to be more economic and business opportunity for whites than for blacks? Is there a need to continue to have such organizations like the NAACP, Human Relations Commission and the law of affirmative action? What is the true history of Willy Lynch? Why is the state in which we live one of only five states in America that do not have a hate crime law?

When discussion and plans take place regarding future development and economic growth for our community, is the black community represented at the table? Did you know you can vote and elect the first black Vigo County recorder this election season? Will this presidential election help racial issues? What is institutionalized racism?

Is there truly reverse discrimination? Why is there such a high rate of HIV/AIDS in the black community? Should the churches (white and black) play a role in addressing the ills and injustices that impact church membership and community? Are black males less responsible for their children than white males? Why is there a negative perception of those who date/marry outside their race? Do some ignore the injustice of racism?

The statistical numbers still prove a wide disparity in sentencing guidelines between whites and blacks. Why? Why was the Hyte Center board removed from its building by the Terre Haute Park Board over an alleged allegation of not being accountable for $30,000 of city funds, yet never proven? Why did the Park Board enter into a lease with Chances for Youth board, a predominantly white board, and fund that organization over $130,000 to help run the community center for one year? Why are there more blighted conditions in the black community than white? Why does the system seem to elect or place complacent/safe blacks in leadership positions?

Why is it easier to recognize the atrocity of the Holocaust than it is to realize the impact slavery has had on the black community? Do blacks have the right to feel the country has betrayed them? Why are there whites who claim no prejudice, yet stand by or do not speak up when disparaging remarks or jokes are made regarding those of other races? When the epidemic of crack cocaine affected the black community, why was attention not given as it has been for the meth addiction on the white community?

If by reading these questions you feel encouraged enough to give your opinion on one of these topics, or maybe you have one of your own, please respond to the Readers’ Forum and we can continue to have positive dialog about race relations in America and our own city on how to bring about change.

— C. Dwayne Malone

Terre Haute

Candidate for Recorder in Vigo County

        

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