Efforts at colorblindness and antiracism have not been very effective in addressing racial tensions in the United States. Colorblindness ignores the realities of race and the history of injustice. On the other hand, antiracism centers racial concerns and in so doing often alienates people who need to be involved in the process. Sociologist George Yancey offers an alternative approach to racial relations where all parties contribute and are mutually accountable to one another for societal well-being. He provides empirical rationale for how collaborative conversations in a mutual accountability model can reduce racial division. History and societal complexity mean that different participants may have different kinds of responsibility, but all are involved in seeking the common good. Avoiding unilateral decisions that close off dialogue, Yancey casts a vision for moving beyond racial alienation toward a lifestyle and movement of collaborative conversation and mutuality.
Related Articles
The Rewards and Responsibilities of Transracial Adoption
by Kelly A. Biernat At the park the other day, a young woman commented on how beautiful my brown-skinned, curly-haired daughter is. Proud mom that I am, I thanked her graciously and was open to […]
Fostered
by Tori Hope Petersen Tori Hope Peterson was a biracial child shuffled between 12 different foster homes while growing up. She shares her journey through a tumultuous childhood, becoming an All-American track and field athlete […]
Teaching Doctors Patient Care
By Dr. Alexándrea Evans Oneal The American Academy of Pediatrics classifies youth in foster care as “children with special health care needs” due to the high prevalence of mental health, chronic illness and developmental concerns […]