Social Constitutionality of Race in America: Some Meanings for Bi/Multiracial Families

Abstract

In this chapter we examine how the concept of race has been conceptualized and used as a mechanism of social control. We argue that race is a complex concept, one that has always been difficult to define. The fluid nature of race over time has kept it as a powerful concept and one that has maintained a unique hegemony allowing it to subordinate some groups to other who do not share the traits of those in power. Hegemony that has allowed some groups to be subordinated to others who do not share the traits of those in power. Race has particular meaning for those who share more than one race grouping or those who we call bi/multiracial. We use an ecosystemic paradigm to examine race as a person, process, and context element. It is examined across time as a critical element to any social change and development. Through each of the epochs examined here we see that race, that is being non-White in any variation, remained a basis for differential treatment and outcomes. We also conclude that although the country is slowly altering its population distribution with growth among the bi/multiracial communities, without changes within the hegemonic structure of the culture definitions of race will just be expanded to place these new racial categories on the existing color line that has existed within this country.