If the Million Man March of black males turns out as planned, a serious and thoughtful demonstration of moral integrity and political sturdiness, it could begin to change the unfair stereotype of African-American men.
If, however, the Oct. 16 march in Washington degenerates into racial invective associated with its originator, Louis Farrakhan, it will be disastrous.
Considered on intrinsic merit alone, the idea is excellent. Thousands of black men are expected to converge on Washington to pledge themselves to restore moral values.
They will "straighten their backs," Farrakhan says, by making an orderly and resolute statement of high ethical purpose.
Across the nation, other black males will stay away from their jobs for a day in a show of empathy and to underscore black economic strength.
Farrakhan, leader of the Nation of Islam, has long advocated self-reliance and spiritual renewal among American blacks. That's his acceptable side. At times, though, he is guilty of anti-Semitic insults, and that repulsive side of him is just as real as the other.
Groups that usually assail Farrakhan have set aside their differences temporarily to support or at least not oppose the march.
The Anti-Defamation League, a staunch critic of Farrakhan, hasn't changed its opinion of him but is taking a muted approach to the march.
The National Council of Negro Women endorsed the event, and the NAACP has yet to take a position. Across a wide spectrum, there is enthusiasm for the plan paired with wariness about what Farrakhan might say or do.
Black males will march in a climate that approaches despair about their future. In disproportionate numbers, African-American men are murdered, die too young of disease or are sent to prison for committing crimes.
In the white community, black males often are feared. Under America's welfare system, those jobless African-American men who want to stay in the home with their families are encouraged not to do so. Family strength has declined throughout America, but more so among blacks.
In these depressing circumstances, black males are stereotyped as unworthy and dangerous.
The march in Washington - a promising event if carried out as planned - could begin to replace the stereotype as thousands of honest, hard-working, responsible black men prove their existence and dedication to high moral values. It also could inspire and encourage black males who aren't currently in that category to rebuild their lives.