Tuesday, May 15, 2007

Has MLK's dream been realized?

The statistics seem to show a good amount of upward mobility for African Americans in general. Since 1980, the median income for African American households has gone up nearly $7000, accounting for inflation, more than any other group. The median family income has gone up almost $8000, an increase of 20-30%.

However, despite this progress, African Americans still have a median income considerably lower than other groups. White families make $21000 more, while Asian/Pacific familes make $29000 more.

I do not believe that this gap is caused by racism. I believe a major part of this problem is the inefficiency of public schools, which many African American children depend on for their education. To solve this problem requires reforms in public schools, such as reducing the grasp teachers' unions have, and promoting more competition between schools.

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