Youthwise: Race, Identity and America's Future

Race is a part of our identity, however we define it, and it shapes our world view.  As life becomes more globally connected, the old definitions of race no longer allow us simplistic categories and assumptions about race.  There are people of all colors and heritage who look like us but may share little in common in terms of their beliefs and culture.  So what does race really mean and what is it going to mean in the future?  

The youth of today are creating the future in ways that bear little resemblance to the past.  Race, ethnicity and even gender have become malleable concepts as youth explore and express their identities in ways that go beyond old labels and that go deeper than physical characteristics.  Is the world keeping up?  Are adults evolving fast enough?

Our show this week will explore race as a concept, both considered and lived.  We have a youth guest, Michael Sheppard, 17, from Torrey Pines High School in San Diego.  Michael is a football player and track runner about to graduate and enter college and adulthood.  Our adult guest is distinguished musician and producer, Mr. Robert Irving III from Chicago.  Mr. Irving has worked with many notable musicians including Miles Davis, Branford Marsalis and Grover Washington Jr. and has served as muscical director for the groiup, Sister Sledge.  He has worked as professional mentor for the Jazz Insitute of Chicago for aspiring young musicians.  We look forward to a rich conversation.