Just some of my observations from the South:
"Poor" is not a matter of income; it is a matter of attitude. I know many classy people who don't have much money or material possessions. I also know many "trashy" people who have plenty of money. "Classy" people (black, white, brown, or whatever combination), work hard, strive to improve themselves, keep clean, stay sober, support their kids, have high expectations for their kids, have high moral standards for themselves and their families, don't lie or cheat, are shamed by bad behavior, and don't waste their money on booze, drugs, smokes, or gambling. Classy people do not make "welfare" a way of life.
Black people have had to overcome slavery, Jim Crow laws, and discrimination, yes. Many ordinary black people live successful lives. They are not basketball players, pop singers, or famous names. But they own local barber shops, funeral parlors, drycleaners, diners, used car lots, and shrimp boats. They are local lawyers, preachers, doctors, teachers, professors, real estate agents, police officers, nurses, basket makers, wrought iron artisans, and politicians. In other words, black people are working in the same fields as white people.
Lots of the black folks here (especially in the rural and island communities) eat too much fried food; as do many of the white Southerners.
I have interpreted for black and white students at the college. Some are ambitious, some are lazy whiners, in both colors.
IMHO, black people would be better off if allowed to compete equally with everyone else. No quotas, no special programs, no restrictions. No liberal politicians allowed to get votes by offering special "entitlements." No long-term welfare programs that encourage dependancy.
I believe they can do it. Not everyone, but many, will succeed. If more people must strive, and are not held back, then more can succeed.
I would like to read opinions from our black AD members. What have you seen or experienced in the black community?