Final answer:
The main claim suggests a collective responsibility to address racial issues, criticizing philosophies that impose this burden solely on Black communities and ignore systemic inequalities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The author's main claim appears to be that the responsibility for addressing and rectifying the issues of racial discrimination and inequality should not fall solely on Black citizens but is a collective obligation involving the entire nation. This includes both white and black individuals who must work together to eradicate systemic racism and support black advancement. The referenced texts criticize the perspective that promotes self-reliance among Black communities without acknowledging the systemic barriers in place and also question philosophies like that of Mr. Washington, which allegedly push the burden of the 'Negro problem' onto the shoulders of Black citizens, thereby letting the rest of the nation, especially the white population, off the hook from their share of responsibility.
Furthermore, the texts highlight the triple paradox in Mr. Washington's stance that prompts both tacit criticism and open disagreement among the Black community, particularly from those who see a need for more vocal advocacy and activism. Martin Luther King Jr.'s criticism of the concept of Black capitalism is also notable for underscoring the structural inequalities that hinder black advancement. The collected passages articulate a counter-narrative that advocates for a communal approach to fighting racism, where the efforts of both black and white people are integral to creating change.