A peaceful solution for racial injustice and unrest

BY CARL S. TAYLOR

Racism Is One of the most divisive issues in the United States and in other countries, too. It may involve more than just race per se—such as the physical differences between the Hutus and the Tutsis in Rwanda, or cultural differences between Muslim immigrants and people who were born in France. There always seems to be something about human characteristics that can separate us.

In my work with youth in the Detroit area, I've had opportunities to think long and hard about these situations. And I think that despite the veneer of peace and understanding on the surface, one reason racism continues to bubble underneath is that in many places there's still a need to address core issues, and to work together for healing.

As I look at other large cities—not just in the United States, but in Canada, which is right across the river from Detroit, and elsewhere in the world—I see a similar pattern. Sometimes progress seems painfully slow, but it's vital to persist. Our young people need to experience progress, since they are the wave of the future.

About the author

Carl S. Taylor is a professor of sociology at Michigan State University, and has worked with troubled youth and their families for many years. He is also Senior Outreach and Engagement Fellow and an extension specialist at Michigan State.

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