We must not let cultural, racial, or social barriers distract us from the job that must be done.(Para.14)
Meaning: We must not let cultural, racial or social barriers take our attention from the job that must be done.
barrier: n. sth. that makes it impossible or difficult for sth. else to happen
Taxes are the biggest barrier to free trade. 税收是自由贸易的最大障碍。
There is no reason why love shouldn't cross the age barrier.认为爱情不可以跨越年龄障碍的说法是没有道理的。
distract sb. from sth.: take one's attention from sth.
Don't let social activities distract you from your study.不要让社会活动影响你的学习。
The music soon distracted the boy from his homework.音乐声很快使这个男孩分心了，以致不能专心做家庭作业。