This National Conference on Race and Education, focussed on equal educational opportunities and stressed action rather than research or theoretical discussion. The 600 conference participants included educational administrators, school board members, civil rights leaders, government officials, university scholars, high school students, parents, and representatives of private enterprise. The two most critical elements of the conference related to program strategies and the increasing polarization between conservatives and those who reject gradual solutions. Several comprehensive programs were suggested for achieving desegregation in large urban communities: political alliances, positive programs for social change, changed attitudes and renewed commitment of public school leaders and increased local pressure. However, state power and federal aid were denoted as the most positive steps toward equality of educational opportunity. (EMB)