Jay Honeck wrote:

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I know a few African-American University of Iowa professors and employees
who would kick your ass for saying that. Over a beer (after they've
dusted you off) they would tell you all day long that success in this
country is open to ALL, only requiring an education and hard work.

Or are you implying otherwise?

While the above is no doubt true, it doesn't tell the whole story.
Discrimination still exists. I know someone in the construction business
that wouldn't hire a black man no matter what. To him they are all just
looking to get back on welfare and besides they'd rob him blind anyway.

Want to live the American dream and buy a house? Here in Milwaukee you'd
better not be black. If you actually get a loan (less likely) you'll pay
higher rates and need more money down.

Your friends mention education as a key factor and it certainly is. But
there is certainly not equal access to education right now. It's not really
a racial issue so much as an economic one, but it affects blacks
disproportionally. Nothing perpetuates poverty better than a lack of
education.

We've come a long way but the fact that this subject keeps coming up there
is still work to be done.

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--
Frank....H