With more equality in numbers, ethnic and racial groups could either become more competitive for rights and resources, or they could find tensions easing. None of America's racial minorities are monolithic in their politics. Blacks, who come closest to voting as a bloc for Democrats, span the political spectrum. Hispanics are more diverse in their voting patterns. Voters of Asian background are likewise varied.
Race often melts away when much larger concerns, such as education, draw people together.
The American tradition of forming and reforming new communities of like interests within a democratic system is profound. Large majorities agreed on the importance of teaching children about a common American heritage and values. Diversity can help sustain the unity of a nation that's based on shared ideals. The danger comes if any one racial or ethnic community is so cut off from American society that they fail to teach the fundamentals of civic responsibility to the next generation. That's why states play a critical role in setting a school curriculum that teaches individual responsibility in maintaining healthy communities and electing responsible government.