The issue focused on the use of the term "black" and the lack of an explicit definition. The committee recommended that the term "black" be replaced with "black American," but that it should remain "the most general term" used by federal agencies, and should include all persons or persons of color. The committee also recommended that the term be "preserved," as the term is often used in academic and media studies and research.

The panel also recommended that "black Americans" should be replaced by