Explorations in Ethnic Studies
Orginal Publication Date
1978
Journal Title
Explorations in Ethnic Studies
Volume
1
Issue
ees/vol1/iss1
First Page
37
Last Page
49
Abstract
Looking at any schedule of college courses, one is likely to find several classes which come under the rubric of ethnic studies. The courses are popular with teachers and students alike because they represent a change of pace from traditional study. Hopefully, such courses suggest a move toward an appreciation and recognition of the cultural diversity in America and mean that, as a nation, we are ready to follow the suggestion of Louis Ballard, American Indian composer and author, who stated that "cultural differences should be honored, not merely 'accepted,' which is nothing more than a synonym for 'tolerated.'" In the decade of the Bicentennial, it is fitting that we re-examine our history; however, the "celebration" of the past and the interest in ethnicity have combined during the seventies to result in one very large and, to many people, embarrassing truth: America's historical past does not mean the same to everyone nor has it been interpreted accurately in many cases.
Rights
Copyright, ©EES, The National Association for Ethnic Studies, 1978