Few things reflect our commitment to democracy more than school desegregation. The freedom of our children to pursue their own aspirations, and the equality of opportunity afforded each to do so on a level playing field, are the foundations on which our country is built.
Schools are the touchstone for our ideals and the repository for our dreams.
Perhaps the depth of our feelings explains why reactions to school issues are sometimes so visceral. As a nation, we have learned that equality rarely comes with separation. Perhaps it is possible, but Americans have not yet acquired the skills for such a balancing act. This lack of balance creates an atmosphere where desegregation is denounced single-mindedly by some, and pursued as a priority of high principle by others. For all groups, desegregation is always a winner in the national sweepstakes of good intentions, as all argue for what they think is best for their kids.