This presentation reviews and discusses literature on the following problems affecting blacks in America today: (1) housing; (2) education; (3) economics; (4) civil rights; (5) drugs; and (6) Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). An attempt is made to focus on race relations as a major factor in the majority of the problems discussed. In order to lay the groundwork for a discussion of the problems, the paper begins with an historical overview of the black American experience, discusses the development of black neighborhoods, and points out the role of social stratification among blacks. Among the activities recommended for improving the situation of black Americans are affirmative action, full employment, and social welfare reform. A list of references is included. (PS)