Promoting racial equality, parental involvement, and youth engagement: an interview with Dr. Gail Christopher. Interview by Carmen J. Head.

With each passing decade, the United States has become a more racially and ethnically diverse nation. Many consider children our world's greatest resource. Addressing unequal health outcomes and educational achievement in children of different races and economic backgrounds is paramount. Dismal projections on the increased rates of obesity chronic disease and HIV/AIDS among adults may become a reality if more actions are not taken to help curb their current growing trends among youth, particularly youth of color. Health, education, and supportive and safe living environments are necessary to appropriately develop the world's future adults and leaders. Greater efforts must be made to ensure that the world's future leaders are a true racial and ethnic representation of the world they serve.