In this report seven scholars (Bernard Anderson, James Dumpson, Charles Hamilton, Robert Hill, Vernon Jordan, Jr., Bernard Watson and Robert Weaver) appraise the social, economic, political, and educational status of blacks and black families. Minimal gains and poor prospects for black female heads of families in the current recession job market are discussed. It is noted that in the area of education, despite substantial gains in the struggle for equality, black Americans "must continue to run fast just to stand still." The Carter Administration's fiscal conservatism is cited as a threat to Federal urban and housing programs. Racism is pointed to as it constitutes an ongoing denial of power and self fulfillment to the great majority of black people. It is said that 1977 was a year that demonstrated the necessity to understand politics as a long but promising process. Final recommendations to the American government comprise the issues of unemployment, urban policy and housing, education, health care, welfare reform, youth development, political participation and human rights. (Author/KR)