Citation

Frazier EF. Am. J. Sociol. 1942; 48(3): 369-377.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1942, University of Chicago Press)

DOI

10.1086/219184

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Since the first World War, when we were made aware of the conflicting loyalties of minorities set apart from the rest of population because of race, culture, and national origin, social scientists have given attention to the effect of changes in American life upon these groups. These minorities may be divided into three groups: those actually or potentially identified with our enemies, thse friendly to the United States, and the American Negro. The first group is largerly loyal to the United States, but it has been the object of much suspicion and discrimination. The pro-Nazi and pro-Fascist opinions of some German- and Italian language newspapers and the activities of such organizations as the Bund have made it necessary for the government to suppress some foreign-language newspapers, to intern some of the leader, and to suppress organizations fostering disloyalty. The most drastic action has been that taken against the Japanese community on the West Coast, which was broken up and both alien and native-born Japanese moved to the interior or interned. The minorities friendly to the United States are all colored peoples; but, because of our traditional attitudes toward colored peoples, they continue to suffer discrimination despite their loyalty to our cause. Unlike his reactions to the first World War, the American Negro has exhibited considerable militancy in regard to discrimination. Although the government has issued orders against discrimination, Negroes are still excluded from employment and training opportunities. Because of the war the inadequate housing of Negroes has become worse, their family life is suffering some deterioration, their colleges have lost students and teachers, and their welfare organizations have felt the strain of extra burdens. There are signs that the Negro masses are stirring themselves against the caste restrictions which are rooted in the South, where there is growing tension between the two races. A few liberal newspapers indicate that liberal southerners are willing to make some concessions, especially in regard to employment opportunities. On the other hand, there are signs that some caste restrictions are being relaxed where the government is concerned and in many places in the North.