Attorney General Eric Holder has created a firestorm by his recent statements about race in America, calling the people of the country “cowards” because the issue of race still permeates American society, nearly 60 years after the beginning of the civil rights movement after World War II.
Holder points out that while racial integration and contact has increased at work and in school during the week, that on the weekend, it is rare for people of different races to pray together or socialize together. His use of the word “cowards”, however, does not make sense to me, while what he said about segregation on the weekends does ring true in a broad sense.
No one ever could have thought that we would make as much progress as we have achieved in the last 60 years to the point that we have an African American President and Attorney General At the same time, prejudice, racism and discrimination still exist, although I would contend in lesser amounts than when I was in college and since then. The battle goes on, but I am encouraged by the fact that the younger generation does not separate themselves by race or ethnicity as compared to older people. Social acceptance of racial integration has increased dramatically, particularly among people under the age of 40. As time goes on, the acceptance of race in social situations, including houses of worship and social situations, will improve. Patience is required, and the ability to see the broad picture of widespread improvement.
Holder brings up an important issue, but I think his language does not help promote racial understanding, and he needs to be more careful, therefore, in his use of terminology in the future. His position as Attorney General demands a more considerate, thoughtful usage of language.