Voluntary Segregation-A Disaster

Abstract

Abstract In the following article, written in March 1969, Roy Wilkins argues against the theory that “a little voluntary racial segregation might not be a disaster.” He proclaims that racial separation is the principal tool for white supremacy. San Bernardino, Calif.-In California one gets the impression from spokesmen and apologists for militant elements that a little voluntary racial segregation might not be a disaster. The so-called settlement of the four and one-half months of strife at San Fran cisco State College is spurring discussion. It leaves the students with less than they sought and much less public support than they had in the beginning. Once the door to the policy of official, imposed racial separation is opened, the darkness begins to descend. Particularly is this true in nations where the non whites are a small numerical minority and a still more vulnerable economic and political minority. Also, where the whites have control of the government machinery and can enact legislation and execute policies that can rivet tactical inferiority upon a whole people.