Do socioeconomic disadvantages continue from slavery?
Knowing that it is very difficult for a child to succeed academically if their parents did not, is low achievement by black students still a remnant of slavery?
I think the socioeconomic conditions have more to do with Jim Crow and the effects of segregation than slavery. Slavery ended over 150 years ago so it's hard for current generations of blacks to claim that is holding them back. On the other hand, Jim Crow can still be seen in the South and those effects are probably still more apparent.
At the heart of what you are asking is whether education helps break down socio-economic barriers. The question is whether opportunities beget advancement. The answer to that is unclear.
I think too often people look for an excuse. Not just black people, but all people. It is more difficult for some people due to language barriers, cultural background? Yes, there is some racial segregation, yet I don't think we can say just black people and slavery anymore.
I think the socioeconomic conditions have more to do with Jim Crow and the effects of segregation than slavery. Slavery ended over 150 years ago so it's hard for current generations of blacks to claim that is holding them back. On the other hand, Jim Crow can still be seen in the South and those effects are probably still more apparent.
ReplyDeleteAt the heart of what you are asking is whether education helps break down socio-economic barriers. The question is whether opportunities beget advancement. The answer to that is unclear.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if it is easier or harder to maximize opportunities in education for various racial/ethnic groups today? Are we making gains in this respect?
ReplyDeleteI think too often people look for an excuse. Not just black people, but all people. It is more difficult for some people due to language barriers, cultural background? Yes, there is some racial segregation, yet I don't think we can say just black people and slavery anymore.
ReplyDelete