Final answer:
Du Bois's idea of the Talented Tenth suggested that societal progress relies on the leadership of an educated elite within the African-American community. While there is evidence of significant African-American leadership today, enduring inequalities show that the full realization of the Talented Tenth is ongoing and still faces challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding whether W.E.B. Du Bois's ideas of the Talented Tenth are being realized requires an evaluation of the current state of educational attainment, leadership roles, and opportunities among African Americans. Du Bois's Talented Tenth concept held that societal progress, and especially the advancement of African Americans, depended on the educational and leadership development of the top 10% of the community. Du Bois believed that this educated elite would lead the way in fighting for racial equality and elevating the status of all African Americans. Du Bois's involvement with organizations such as the NAACP and his contributions to the Harlem Renaissance were part of his efforts to advance this idea. The presence of African-American leaders in various sectors today, including politics, academia, business, and the arts, suggests that the ethos of the Talented Tenth has had enduring influence. Nevertheless, systemic challenges such as educational inequality, economic disparities, and social discrimination persist, indicating that the full realization of Du Bois's vision is a work in progress.
In conclusion, while there have been significant strides taken towards achieving the goals outlined by Dubois's Talented Tenth philosophy, ongoing efforts are required to address continuing inequalities and to ensure that more African Americans can access the opportunities necessary to realize their potential as leaders and trailblazers within society.