Labels wield a lot of persuasive power — intentionally or unintentionally.
I am not speaking of labels on the commodities (clothes, foods, etc.) that we buy, although in light of being an informed consumer, we should read those labels too. However, my reference is broader.
The intense vitriol in the public sphere over the past month against President Obama's healthcare plan — the raucous town halls, insulting signs, the Birthers' crusade, and Congressman Joe Wilson's outburst — begs to what degree these sentiments are fueled by racism as much as ideological differences concerning the president's healthcare proposal.
Beginning in September 2010, USARiseUp will launch and host a ongoing conversation, the National Collegiate Dialogue on Race Relations. It is an unprecedented and historic undertaking.
