An in-depth sociological study, this book examines the current state of the black community in America and advances theories for improving its quality of life. Exploring issues that confront black America in its effort to identify and remedy societal ills, it addresses such tough questions as: Do African American children understand and appreciate the struggle of the civil rights movement?; How has it come about that one third of all African American males have experience within the criminal justice system?; and Have black Americans lost their identification with African culture? Other topics covered include the role of cultural institutions in the black community, strategies for empowerment, and relationships between race, culture, and class.