Racism in America

I disagree with Mr. Smiley because I do not believe that racism is the most intractable issue facing our nation today. Instead, I believe that poverty and unemployment are the most difficult issues that the country must confront. However, I do agree with Mr. Smiley somewhat because I definitely think that most people are uncomfortable, and sometimes, unwilling, to discuss race in the United States because of the fear of not being politically correct and offending a group of people. However, the only way that the citizens of the United States will be able to sort out their mixed feelings about race will be if a candid conversation about race and racism takes place, preferably on a national scale, with representatives of every racial group represented in America. The way to make such a conversation easier and smooth would be if everyone involved did not try to be politically correct, while showing basic respect for the dignity of every person involved. During this conversation, the racism that has occurred in the past in this country would not be forgotten, but would be used as a cautionary tale against racism ever taking place ever again.