Question

To separate [African American children] from others . . . solely because of their race generates a feeling of inferiority . . . that may affect their hearts and minds in a way unlikely ever to be undone. . . . The impact is greater when it has the [approval] of the law, for the policy of separating the races is usually interpreted as denoting the inferiority of [African Americans]. A sense of inferiority affects the motivation of a child to learn.

Which statement best summarizes this passage?

Segregation of schools harms African American children.
Children eventually overcome the effects of segregation.
Segregation is a form of separation, not discrimination.
Segregation has no association with racial inferiority.

Answer 1

Segregation of schools harms African American children.

The passage says separating children by race creates a lasting feeling of inferiority (especially when backed by law) that undermines their motivation to learn, which matches option 1.