The fabulous Mitali Perkins has a truly exceptional article at School Library Journal, "Straight Talk on Race: Challenging Stereotypes in Kids' Books." While it is, obviously, focused on work for children and young adults, it's worth a read for anyone writing for any audience. I'd extract a snippet, but, really, seriously, just go read the whole thing.
Updated: And some additional comments–and a challenge–at Mitali's blog.
Excellent article — thanks for linking to it.
Brilliant article, Gwenda. Thanks.