Boston's latest racial confrontation occurred yesterday.

A group of white youths viciously attacked a black attorney, Theodore Landsmark.

I grew up in the projects in New York City,

and I always felt that those of us who lived in public housing

ought to have had some say about how the projects were designed.

I understood that design could affect equity

across races, across classes and across geographies.

Bettering the conditions of people who

are usually underrepresented in major policy circles

has been a commitment that I've had throughout my life.

So when I had the opportunity,

I studied both law and architecture.

Most of my life has really been a very interesting trip

through culture and art and politics.

I was new to Boston in the early 70s,

and it was in fact, a moment of high racial tension in the city.

Landmark was on his way to a meeting in City Hall when he was beaten

by youths who were protesting busing.

It was very disconcerting to find myself recognized

not so much for what I had done,

but for where I had been at a moment in time.

I certainly understand the iconic nature of the photograph.

But before the photograph I was involved

with civil rights and social justice issues.

And subsequent to the photograph, I have served on public boards,

I've worked in the arts,

I spent 17 years as a college president.

And I'll probably be remembered for the photograph.

But I know that there's much more to my life than that moment in time.