"Rethinking Race In the Classroom"

This article talks about the argument regarding which books that discuss race should still be taught in the classroom. Classics like Of Mice and Men, To Kill A Mockingbird, and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn are under fire because the N-word is used frequently and the portrayal of black characters follow stereotypes that are no longer tolerated in contemporary culture. I personally do not believe these books should be banned from schools not only because of their literary brilliance but because they are an important part of American history and our contributions to the world. Though this debate has been going on for a while, the election of President Obama has given even more ammunition to those who are against the teaching of such books. Just because there is now a black president does not mean race disappears and does not discount history. Yes, it is important for a new generation of children to accept everyone but that does not mean differences need to be ignored, just celebrated and understood. Also, children need to understand why we accept everyone not just be told to believe it blindly because eventually questions are asked and we want to make sure kids are given the right answers. This topic has come up a lot in class, whether or not racism has disappeared just because Obama is president. Many forms of media told his story as if the wall has completely fallen down and there is nothing else. Although this was one hurdle blacks had not yet jumped, just because it is a big one does not mean there is nothing else. It is contradictory that the media covered so many stories about how racial barriers are gone, but won't we really know that to be true when the media stops talking about it?

http://www.newsweek.com/id/187009