When I read articles such as the one written by Bob Herbert, I am often surprised and disturbed. The statistics are alarming and I can't help but wonder why. How could we have come so far and gone nowhere at the same time? In his article, Herbert provides much room for debate on this issue. However, where he does land is in stating that more organized action must be taken and that it will require a very concerted effort to make the change. He states that this responsibility lies with the black community as well as continued pressure on the broader society to meet both its ethical and legal obligations.
I believe that society in general views African Americans much differently than Newt Gingrich. That may be wishful thinking on my part, but growing up in middle class America and in a racially diverse neighborhood, my thought is that us "real folks" have a better understanding of the reality that welfare is not a choice, but a necessity for those in need. And by the way Newt, it's not defined by the color of someone's skin.
I agree with you Julie, the statistics alone are enough of a reason for everyone to be alarmed. Although I already knew much of what was stated in the Herbert article it is still hard to understand. In terms of Gingrich, I grew up in the Middle Class as well but in a low income High School and I also say welfare is definitely not a choice. Good points.
ReplyDeleteI love your last comment about how welfare is not defined by the color of someone's skin. It's a bit depressing that some of our country's leaders are making such offensive marks about people based on the color of the skin. In addition, I agree with the statement that "real folks" know welfare is not a choice.
ReplyDeleteThe statistics shook me to my core I was that alarmed. I didn't know the numbers until reading this! I grew up in small town America in an only one high school, middle school and elementary school town and a lot of the kids were middle class so I didn't see much of welfare growing up in Vestal, New York. I was the one being made fun of for being the immigrant's child so I wasn't really paying much attention to others and their oppression. I saw welfare in Leander and no it's not a choice it's survival!And I also observed that there are a lot of racist people in Leander that it shocked me! D:
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