That’s the difference between a society where tensions are high because we’re actively trying to work through the challenges faced by our minority groups, and one where there are no tensions because the concerns of minority groups are completely suppressed.
"We who engage in nonviolent direct action are not the creators of tension. We merely bring to the surface the hidden tension that is already alive." -MLK
In America, there is a lot of tension near the surface. It might seem like that means we have deep, deep problems. But sometimes when an issue is closer to the surface, that can mean it can no longer be ignored and is closer to needing resolution.
In my opinion the issues are close to the surface because the social enlightenment that much of the US experienced is a very recent thing. The best example is how the views on homosexuality has shifted in the last 20 years but it's also shown in views on race, poverty, and drugs
Very well put!