Success Runs in Our Race

July 4, 1994
Fraser, founder and CEO of SuccessSource, which publishes directories of African-American professionals, here advises black Americans on how to achieve personal and career success. He recommends pragmatic goals--``increase public awareness of black excellence . . . promote racial pride''--and actions--``bring positive black role models into your community schools''--in combination with his suggestions on networking for information, influence and resources. Fraser's coverage of 10 tips for whites seeking to network with African-Americans and minority firms enhances this guide: go to black events, shun racial jokes and ``please, avoid saying, `Some of my best friends are black.' '' The profiles presented of such entrepreneurs as John H. Johnson, head of Johnson Publishing, are inspiring, as is Fraser's recounting of his own rise from poverty.