This essay will be a test of student’s ability to respond to a deep-dive question concerning race and ethnic relations in the United States using material covered thus far in class. Students are expected to properly cite all sources using ASA format. Your essay should include a thesis, evidence from the test supporting your thesis, and a summary of your argument. Please be aware, this assignment is not a test of how well students craft essays that they may believe align with positions held by the instructor. This essay should be based on what you think and the evidence that has led you to hold such positions. You will be graded on the substance of your argument, your use of material to support your argument, writing style and clarity, and how convincingly you argue your position. A separate grading rubric will be provided as a guideline for the essay. Below are the prompts from which you must choose one question to craft your essay in response to.

Essay Prompts:

1. Discuss the social, political, and economic implications of race. How has (and is) race been used to organize the United States and distribute wealth and resources? What do some theories say about the reasoning behind racial inequality? or 2. In essay form, discuss the what whiteness has meant as it pertains to race and ethnic relations in the US. How is the meaning of whiteness related to that of Blackness? How could affirmative action policies (this phrase is used loosely) transform the meaning of whiteness and foster a more equitable distribution of wealth and resources?