When I was a young pup, I think we had three or four choices on most applications and surveys: Caucasian, Black, Asian or Native American. Sometimes I don't think the Native Americans (or in those politically incorrect days, Indian) was often one of the options. Today, I think we have an excess of choices.
I don't suppose too many people really care about race or ethnic origins. I know when I deal with people, I don't really think about ethnicity or ancestry unless it becomes the focus of attention for some reason. I have friends who are African American, but usually I don't think of their race or ethnicity any more than I think of another friend, whose ancestors came from Hungary.
In Ward Churchill's case, I guess it's become an issue because (a) he claimed to be a Native American (that is, a member of an oppressed, downtrodden ethnic group, in his opinion),(b) he is alleged to have fabricated the truth in other areas as well; and (c) he has insulted those who died on 9/11, among other things.
If it's an issue regarding Mr. Churchill, it's because he has made it an issue because of his abhorrent behavior.
"Today, I think we have an excess of choices."
There's only one choice for white people. Count me as one of the whiners. I won't be the only race denied any diversity within.
I have white friends, friends of Indian descent, friends of Native American descent, and black friends, but never have I had an "African American" friend. Most of these people have ancestry in America dating back hundreds of years. That's like calling me English because I have ancestors that lived in England, but left for America over 200 years ago. I am an American.