Continuing Our Commitment to Diversity
“For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a
weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus - and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.” –President Barack Obama
It seems particularly fitting to reflect on diversity this month, January 2009. The annual Martin Luther King, Jr. events remind us of the struggles of the civil rights movement, while the inauguration of President Barack Obama signifies the progress that has been made. The election of our first African-American president is a feel-good moment, but hardly an indication that issues of race have been resolved.
America is beginning to discuss more openly issues of race and racism. Black Americans are more hopeful than ever that positive change is occurring. “In the CNN/Opinion Research Corp. survey, 44 percent of blacks and 25 percent of whites said that Obama's election heralds a ‘new era’ in race relations. Among blacks, 69 percent said the US has fulfilled the vision outlined by Martin Luther King Jr. in his ‘I Have a Dream’ speech, while only 46 percent of whites said so. And 61 percent of blacks and 48 percent of whites said the quality of life for African Americans will improve over the next four years.” (Article)
In Arizona, there is also reason for optimism. A 2008 study "Blacks in Arizona," produced by Arizona State University and the Greater Phoenix Urban League, indicates that African-Americans in the state have made progress. For example, African-American median household income in Phoenix rose 65 percent between 1990 and 2000 to $33,922. The percentage of single-race Blacks living in poverty fell from 31 percent in 1986 to 24 percent in 2006.
However, amid the hope and optimism, there are reasons for concern. The “Blacks in Arizona” report also states that approximately one fifth of Blacks in Arizona lived in poverty in 2000 and that their unemployment rate, like the national rate, is often at least double that of Whites. And in the CNN survey, 52% of Blacks and 41% of Whites indicate that they believe race relations will always be a problem. There is important work to be done.
MCCCD’s Minority Male Initiative (http://www.maricopa.edu/studentaffairs/minoritymales/) is but one example of work that is being accomplished with an eye towards helping all of our students to be successful. Significant progress has been made within Maricopa and across the nation. Obama’s election is a historic milestone and this moment provides cause for optimism. There is, however, much remaining to be done. Let’s pledge to continue the work of diversity with commitment and conviction on behalf of Maricopa’s students, our employees, and our communities.
Maria L. Hesse
President
Chandler-Gilbert Community College