As the United States enters the 21st century, the rich diversity of its people may be its greatest promise and its greatest challenge. The country still struggles with a legacy of racial discrimination and ethnic disparity, even if their forms are subtler today. This book is designed to promote public deliberation that can help individuals find common ground for action on the troubling racial and ethnic problems that still divide the nation. The book provides an overview of the issue and outlines three approaches. Each approach speaks for one set of priorities and views and, drawing ideas from across the political spectrum, advocates a unique and consistent way of dealing with the problem. Approaches are: (1) "Look beyond Race and Ethnicity" (focus on what unites, not what divides); (2) "Build Self-Identity First" (acknowledge and accept differences); and (3) "Open All Doors to Everyone" (take an active part in finishing the job of integration). (BT)