"The problem of the twentieth century is the problem of the color line."  Those words spoken by W.E.B Dubois at the dawning of the present century are as relevant today as they were the day they rolled off  his lips.  With that in mind, the question then becomes:  "How can both African- Americans and Whites have effective dialogue regarding racism?"  Racism has contributed immensely to the creation of negative stereotypes about African-Americans.  In fact, some of the
more destructive stereotypes of  African-Americans have endured for so long that they almost seem factual; this might be the reason why some Whites are disinclined to change their opinions of African-Americans as a whole.  But, in order for the nation to move forward, we as American citizens, both African-Americans and Whites must strive to find common ground on racial issues.

  For some Whites, the idea of finding common ground as it refers to racism might be difficult for them because of  a certain perception they may have regarding African-Americans.  Whites may be reluctant to discussing racial matters as it relates to past treatment of African-Americans because the past treatment of African-Americans does not in any way reflect their (Whites) ideologies whatsoever.  Perhaps this is part of the issue that inflames the emotions of many African-Americans and Whites that prevents them from having discussion on this matter.  They may feel that it is a topic that ought to be left in the past.  Still, others may oppose talking about racism because it may stir heated debates that will ultimately lead to a wider chasm between both
African-Americans and Whites.  For all these reasons, there is a degree of validity in which one can understand, but if we are to live together and grow as a nation then we must allay our social differences.

  Therefore, I think we as a people, African-Americans and Whites, should not be apathetic towards each other, especially since we all have contributed in making America what it is today: the most progressive country in the world.  We ought to find a common topic about race relations in which we can discuss objectively and calmly, and from that topic venture into new topics that explore the race problem.  Only  until we can talk about things that inhibit us from expressing what we think about each other, can we begin to heal the wounds of racism.  In the past, the image of African-Americans have been distorted; and so, because of the distortions, there is a need to educate those who might not know that racism was nothing more than a philosophy that was created and used as a rationale to subject Africans to slavery.  But, we are far removed from those days.  There is no need for racism in our society  today.

  That is why, in this era of diversity Whites would profit socially by reaching out and having discussions aimed at resolving the racial differences that exist between African-Americans and themselves.  Therefore, in establishing a forum it is first necessary for Whites to have an unbiased and impartial knowledge of  African-American history and culture that transcends the boundaries of slavery.  Thus, studying and acknowledging the works of African-American scholars such as: Dr. John Henrike Clarke, Benjamin Quarles, and Dr. Yosef  Ben-Jochannan in main stream America, may enrich their understanding of the African-American Legacy.  Also, it would be of benefit to Whites to realize that we share a dream of prosperity, and that dream is extricably tied to American dream of  prosperity  for all Americans; that it should not be just in theory, but in practice as well.  Therefore, one way Whites could help toward resolving racism is through open discussion; that may be tantamount to ensuring good race relations.  Finally, to illustrate my point, the educator  Robert Hutchins asserts, " The death of  Democracy is not likely to be an assassination from ambush.  It will be a slow extinction from apathy, indifference, and undernourishment."