In this essay, Dr. Emmett Carson provides three reasons foundations should engage in specific programs aimed at supporting African-American men and boys: the mythology of a post-racial society; saving an endangered species; and ensuring global competitiveness.
- Widespread acceptance of the U.S. as a post-racial society has prevented civic discourse around race and discouraged foundations from researching racial disparities and supporting solutions.
- African-American males have experienced significant socio-economic challenges for decades, which have been met with "the deafening silence of national indifference."
- The current experiences of African Americans are rooted in the country's history of slavery and prejudice and the cultural legacy of dehumanizing African-Americans.
- For the country to remain globally competitive, it is imperative that all Americans – including African-American men and boys – are able to fulfill their potential.
- The disparities experienced by African-American males should compel foundations to act consistently with their values and mission statements to develop race-specific approaches for ameliorating these conditions.
Published by
- Emmett D. Carson