After dealing with this topic for almost 3 years I finally
have the time to discuss this issue from my point of view. It has come to my
attention that a vast majority of individuals relate African Americans to “People
who whine and complain about not having things, yet they are doing nothing to
better themselves or their current living situations”. To be completely honest
I must say that to some extent I agree. Browsing hundreds of articles, blogs,
and other readings related to African Americans needing assistance in some sort
of form, I’ve noticed that many people of the Caucasian race are posting exceedingly derogatory remarks in the comments section. But why? Do they speak the truth? According to the US census
bureau, in 2011 39.8% African Americans were receiving welfare while Caucasians
stood at 38.8%.Now before you think that those percentages are close, they
actually are not. Caucasians make up nearly 80% of the total US population vs.
African Americans accounting up to only 13%(YOU DO THE MATH!). Does this justify
the reasons that (Some) Caucasians think the way that they do? Does their
opinions bother you? Think…Do you know any friends/relatives that could be
working but they aren’t? Do you care? Why or why not? Being black in America is
tough enough, so why add negative after negative after negative. Not all people
will be successful however, we must start from somewhere. We have to set the
foundation for future generations to become as great as we can be. This post
may seem as if I am feeding into a stereotype but if you look at it, most stereotypes
have some truth to them. Are you unhappy
with your current lifestyle/living situation? Have you attempted to change it?
Will you attempt to change it? NOTHING is GIVEN, EVERYTHING is EARNED! Let’s be
straightforward, we as African Americans do lack some of the opportunities that
are given to others but, that does not mean you are incapable of thriving. Will
you let a couple of bumps in the road determine your future?
Race relations will remain an issue for years to come so why
keep sweeping a much needed discussion under the rug?
DISCLAIMER: This
blog was not written to insult the African American/ Caucasian race in any way
shape or form. It was written with the intention to open the eyes of African Americans
and to simply spur discussion. My findings also don’t associate with the entire
Caucasian / African American race.
-Cory Cox
