Final answer:
African Americans and other minorities have historically been underrepresented in upper levels of government, corporate leadership, and educational institutions. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 sought to outlaw discrimination, yet challenges for equal representation continue.
Step-by-step explanation:
Historically, African Americans and other minorities have been underrepresented at the upper levels of government, in corporate leadership, and at educational institutions. The correct answer to the student's question is D) All of the above. Issues such as racial discrimination and lack of equal access to opportunities have contributed significantly to this underrepresentation. Although the Civil Rights Act of 1964 strived to outlaw discrimination and encourage integration, challenges persist for minorities aiming to reach levels of high influence in government, corporate, and educational spheres.
For example, in federal employment, African Americans were historically more represented due to the merit-based nature of the civil service, as highlighted by the advancement of Eric Holder to U.S. attorney general in 2009.