The major point of this address is that education for black Americans cannot be viewed apart from the political, economic, and social structures of American society. More attention must be devoted to understanding the exercise of political power, informed and accurate policy analysis, and the relationship of the worker to modern industry. Income factors, the economy, the character of work and of the work force are explored. It is proposed that thoughts about the type of training and education black children should receive in school must be redirected. At the same time the causes of discrimination in all facets of American society should be attacked. A list of actions to be taken to improve the lot of those in the black community is included. (Author/BS)