Chet, I really wish I could agree with you - 'cause you're a Mudcatter that I usually DO agree with. From what I've seen over the last 11 years working at a VERY diverse radio station...a lot of folks feel they're at war. The content and attitudes of the Native People's radio show sure reflects a state of seige mentality. The shows dealing with homeless street people, mental illness, Gay rights, and the physically disabled, all take the approach that nothing will be done to address their concerns unless they play serious hard-ball..which means actions, re-actions, and arrests.
The black programmers certainly haven't given the impression that any form of compromise with white society is a goal. It may have been 11 years ago (to a certain extent) but not anymore. As a white liberal, I would neither be considered an ally or an enemy, but more likely, just non-existant. This is in Toronto Canada, where the racial stakes are probably lower than many other places. Naturally rap has evolved into big bucks, (as did folkish music in the 60s) but I think at the street level it keeps their hopes up for some kind of power on a daily or weekly basis. I just don't think plans for a better world generally are a part of their reality. Daily survival seems to me what rap is about. (for those who aren't making the millions)

Rick