Ronald Takaki, Professor of Ethnic Studies at UC Berkeley, defines
multicultural education as "challenging the traditional master narrative
of American History" and "an opportunity for us to learn about each other
in a systematic, informed way to reunite America". He cites Schlesinger
(author of The Disuniting of America) as equating multiculturalism with
Afrocentrism. He agrees with E.D. Hirsch, (author of Cultural Literacy,
What Every American Needs to Know), that there should be a core multicultural
curriculum. However, he find Hirsch's curriculum content to be very Eurocentric.
Takaki suggests educators, not bureaucrats, should come together to establish
this core curriculum.
Takaki answers questions regarding standards, bilingual education, affirmative action, race, ethnicity, gender and class and American history. He shares personal experiences that directed him toward his present occupation. This is a very positive, instructive interview.
Submitted by Maggie Jackson