I do believe that there are systems and attitudes in place that make life more difficult for non-white citizens. The most glaring example to me in this book is educational opportunity. There are only so many spots in any magnet program. And the difference in receiving one or not is the difference between the opportunities afforded to someone who cannot read and to someone who has a degree from Yale. Shouldn't all our public schools be "magnet" schools?
I also think there are many hardships based on socio-economic status. Unfortunately, many non-white people have lower incomes (often because of lack of good public schools). This affects where one lives, what one eats, medical care, and life experiences (think of Quiara's Pops, who had never seen the ocean even though he lived on an island).
I have made it a point over the last year and a half to read more non-fiction and search for books written by non-white authors- -one of the reasons I asked for this book. I am well aware of the fact that I need to educate myself. I have recently found a blogger who sends out a list of actions that can be taken in just 5 minutes a day. It has helped me find a focus in an overwhelming climate. I have also stopped sharing what I have learned with those who don't agree with me. That may be a copout, but I have felt less discouraged, angry, and hopeless. By springtime, I would like to have enough information to be able to select one area I am most interested in- -to get involved by volunteering. I realize that I can't tackle every injustice in this world, so I am investigating to find the one that is right for me.