The disparity in national degree attainment between Black and White males is quite disconcerting. In 2003, Black males comprised 4 percent of associate degrees, 3 percent of bachelor’s degrees, and about 2 percent of master’s degrees and doctoral degrees. In comparison, White males comprised 28 percent of associate degrees, 32 percent of bachelor’s degrees, 26 percent of master’s degrees, and 29 percent of doctoral degrees. As a result, in 2005, educational researcher Shaun Harper found on average, at all levels, White males earn 10 times the number of degrees than Black males.

Even this cursory survey of data on Black males and their educational outcomes provides a vivid reality of separate and unequal experiences for Black males. Although aggressive, forward thinking interventions like affirmative action are under attack, the need for public awareness and policy targeted to close the persisting and escalating gaps in educational attainment and life outcomes of young Black males is necessary now, more than ever. With the spectacular success of Senator Obama, some will attempt to manipulate public consciousness toward a post-civil rights, colorblind discourse that sociologists Michael Omi and Howard Winant have warned us of for many years — which ignores the copious levels of racial disparity evidenced by educational research. By remaining fastidious and working to eradicate these disheartening disparities, ultimately our national union will benefit.

Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig is an assistant professor of educational policy at The University of Texas at Austin.  Dr. Richard J. Reddick is an assistant professor of higher education at The University of Texas at Austin.

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