A new study suggests that blacks and Hispanics are more hopeful about the future of the economy than whites. Do the results mirror your opinions? Whether they do or don't, here is an opportunity to talk about race and the recession with the media. Tonight the Washington Post is hosting a panel discussion called "Behind the Headlines: A Discussion on Race and the Recession in Metro Washington."

The panel -- moderated by syndicated personal-finance columnist Michelle Singletary and including the Rev. Al Sharpton, Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.) and Jeff Johnson, among others -- will focus on the recession's impact on local black families and review how economic policies in Washington have affected African Americans. The discussion starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Rennie Forum in Upper Marlboro, Md. Click here for more information.

Previous recommendation: Adele.

Like The Root on Facebook. Follow us on Twitter.