United around racial diversity

A Supreme Court ruling didn't preclude less-racial means to achieve the aim of diversity in schools.

from the June 29, 2007 edition

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"Over time, especially with some thought and care, we can get used to diversity," Putnam writes in Scandinavian Political Studies. "That's what the country has done in the past, and that's what the country is going through now."

His message of hope comes at an opportune time. As Congress wrestles with immigration, Putnam asks: How do we learn to live together to strengthen communities?

For starters, he would expand English-language training and build more community centers, playgrounds, and places to gather that can create opportunities for inclusiveness. Assimilation comes from sharing experiences, popular culture, and education. He points to the US Army and some evangelical megachurches as examples of institutions that open their doors to a variety of people and integrate them around common interests.

Ethnic and racial diversity is both inevitable and an asset. It spurs economic growth, brings new cultural influences, and increases creativity. Finding a "shared identity that transcends differences" is a continuing effort. Instead of becoming a nation of turtles, Americans will benefit by expanding their collective sense of "we" and "us."

Courts will always ask if diversity is a "compelling state interest" to justify the extent of the means to achieve it. In this latest case (see story) the high court found the ends didn't justify the means.

More broadly, the more Americans define themselves above superficial physical features, the easier it will be to go beyond old debates about race and ethnicity.

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