As President Obama prepares for his State of the Union, we gathered questions and concerns from voices within the urban and R&B community that will affect families and neighborhoods in years to come. The League of Young Voters Education Fund will lead “voices from music and politics” to address our concerns regarding the State of the Union.
Jobs? Everybody Needs A Dollar
National unemployment has hung slightly below ten percent but minority (Blacks 15%, Latino 13%) unemployment rates are higher than average. For some individuals unemployment benefits have ended or only a couple month are left without a job insight. How can more job opportunities be created at fair wages?
“I Need A Dollar Dollar, A Dollar Is What I Need” â “I Need A Dollar” – Aloe Blacc
Educate Our Generation
Now that there are an abundance of applicants in the job market, education is a major factor that differentiates individuals from the crowd. It is slowly becoming a pre-requisite to have a Master’s degree but tuition fees are out of reach for most candidates. In order for the country to have an innovative job force, talent has to be trained. With the high cost of education the talent pool remains limited.
“â¦A fair chance means a greater opportunity, to have a brighter future, deeper insight” â “Our Generation” – John Legend with The Roots featuring CL Smooth
Housing â A Place to Rest
In major cities, housing and rental cost have increased dramatically making residency unaffordable for many working class people. Having a place to rest your head is a basic factor of humanity but displacement among minority in major cities is increasing. Can stronger caps on new development projects or rent stabilization actions be taken to help families?
“I’m reaching out to all of the hoods and the streets everywhere, I’m reaching out to all in need to show the world that you care⦔ “Hands Across the World” – R. Kelly
—— By: Staff
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