For those of us that have been raised in an inner city environment, It’s no surprise that African Americans lead the country in poverty, lack of education and income. The only race that even falls in this disturbing category is Latinos, which says a lot because many of them migrate here, while African American are born here.We are somehow under the impression that there is an accelerated path to wealth, health and prosperity. With scams, drugs and welfare a common crutch in the minority community a portion of African Americans fail to see the big picture of life without stability.
Why are African Americans not taking advantage of education? Many point the finger at college funding, but what about high school drop out rates?
In a link provided by the Examiner.com Minority students nationally in 2003 graduated at lower rates than whites, with African-Americans identified as the lowest performing rates at 50%, Asian and Pacific Islanders 77%, whites 75%, Latino 53%, American Indian 51%. (Seastrom, 2005) In 2010, nationally black students have a 50/50 chance at completing high school.
You can think back to high school and remember that those you started with, you didn’t graduated with. It’s becomes more evident in college that school isn’t top priority for African Americans. I’ve witnessed girls drop out of high school and college when they get pregnant. I’ve seen young black men that made it to college only to be expelled on drug charges. Sadly, some are making to college and giving up before they taste major classes.
In my personal opinion, I’m sure the opinion of many others; Minorities are not properly prepared for school because they have real issues to face instead of enjoying being a kid. Could you focus on school if your best friend got shot, Could you focus on school if your mother has cancer? Could you focus on school when you crack head uncle stole your electronics. It’s hard! These kids need an outlet and with cities charging for every after school activity, where can they find the attention they desperately seek?
What is the problem? Aren’t we tired of struggling living pay check to pay check, are we not tired of watching our mothers cry over bills and debt. We are failing to realize the effects of this decision to drop out. Many that drop out start families early and feel forced to raise their children continuing in poverty.
With the high percentage of fathers not assisting the upbringing of their children, mothers are left with the pressures of raising a child born into an unfavorable situation. A single parent must convince her child that school is the only way to progress. The mother must express the importance of education without having one herself.
There are many un-answered questions leading to why African Americans lack education and in the end wealth. It’s safe to say we can no longer depend on the government to educate us; we must form alliances with each other. We must care for each other’s kids, boost there self esteem and let them know they are entitled to progress in life.
The road to our community’s progress starts with you!
Mommy Making Moves by LaChanel Hemphill 