Is racism the biggest problem facing the black community?
Dr. Shelby Steele doesn’t think so. Dr. Steele, himself an African American, is a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution, specializing in the study of race relations, multiculturalism, and affirmative action.
He believes “the single worst and most overwhelming problem, bar none” facing the black community is the breakdown of the black American family. Black women get married at half the rate and divorced at twice the rate of white women. Even as Black families move up in social class, they’re fragmented.
Dr. Steele also believes racism is becoming something akin to religion. He says:
“We in black America have created for ourselves a victim-focused identity. Our power in American life is our victimization. And if you’re a victim, you have to have a great monolithic enemy that is victimizing you. And, so, we make racism into a monolithic, almost devil’s figure against which we constantly define ourselves. We make a religion out of it. A faith if you will. We’re celebrating the very thing that has been our enemy all along.”
Provocative thoughts to be sure.
Dr. Steele is explaining his views in full on our Focus on the Family Broadcast “A Fascinating Perspective on Racial Issues.” Hear what he has to say on your local radio station, online, on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or on our free phone app.
Dr. Steele is a reasoned, logical voice in the arena of race relations. He’s sharing thought-provoking opinions about “white guilt,” the dangers of social engineering, and how the black community can best move the culture toward a future where character – not the color of one’s skin – is how we’re measured.
For a gift of any amount, I’d like to offer you a copy of Dr. Tony Evan’s book Oneness Embraced: Reconciliation, the Kingdom, and How We Are Stronger Together. Visit our website or give us a call at 1-800-A-FAMILY (232-6459).
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DR. KWAB OFORI-ANSAH says
-This is nice but not the full truth. The Bible says you shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free. Racism IS most definitely the African American’s number one problem in America. The deterioration of the black family has its origins in slavery the most racist reality of American history. If we’re going to fix the issue we must address it head on. See this vid on slave breeding for insight on the topic at hand.
https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeUor8Dn/
Tracey says
-Masterfully communicated. Please keep spreading the message Dr. Steele. The black community has so many talents and so much to offer. It’s a waste to focus on past and perceived wrongs. Time to use those talents for today!