An honest dialogue on racial and ethnic minority concerns is fundamental for racial progress in America. Before we, all members of society contributing to the democratic process, can speak about race we must acknowledge that we have a problem. That is, that racial inequality still exists and is at times fueled by racism, discrimination, and bias. We must come to terms with the reality that this problem is unique and different from issues of poverty or class, and acknowledge that the problem of race continues to taint public attitudes and hinder minorities’ upward mobility.

If we acknowledge this problem, discursive governance provides a remedy. The dialogue that stems from discursive governance cannot easily be characterized in one statement. A racial political discourse could be politicians’ efforts to improve minority health by coordinating outreach efforts with black churches or having discussions about the racial implications of limiting funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Discursive governance could also be seen in countervailing forces that wish to restrict civil rights legislation and scale back welfare programs that target minority groups. The dialogue on race is all of these things. It may be confrontational, uncomfortable, and challenging. But the words politicians offer on race provide marginalized groups with an opportunity to have their voices heard. And while many may view these words as inconsequential symbolic gestures, this book has shown that words do matter. In the course of validating this point, this study has been guided by one central question: What are the social and political consequences of the changing racial discourse taking place in federal government?

Asking this question awakens a contentious debate between proponents and critics of a race-conscious approach to governing. I offered the broad critique that both sides of this lasting political debate have ignored the potential value of a race-specific discussion in government.