Some of the public policy problems currently facing the United States, which have been created by a reawakening to the real multiethnic character of society, are explored and developed in great detail in this paper. The analysis is confined to domestic affairs, but the significant impact of foreign affairs on ethnic group identity and intergroup relations in America is stated. A listing of central issues dealt with include the following: (1) quota and affirmative action--the most dramatic and most far-reaching in its implications; (2) ethnic studies--with the current rising demand of white ethnic groups to be included in the curriculum revision, there is real confusion among educators as to how to respond to the new surges and militancy that have arisen; (3) bilingual education--Spanish speaking groups have long perceived bilingualism as a key to their survival, and Chinese demands are currently litigating in the Supreme Court; (4) government reorganization--overlooked in the past is that there is no plan for the reorganization of municipal power which does not affect ethnic group relations quite dramatically; (5) racism--it has the most devasting consequences on intergroup relations in America; and (6) group identity--it has extensive public policy ramifications and is seen as deserving serious attention. (Author/AM)