:: Book Reviews

 

:: Why African Americans Can’t Get Ahead ::

               By Gwen Richardson

In my very first post I ask whether W.E.B. DuBois’ “double-consciousness” ideaology is still socially applicable today. Gwen Richardson’s piece really compartmentalizes the question, exploring the lack of knowledgeable economic practices in contemporary times. I find it surprising that in 2008, African Americans find themselves with similar social and economic mindsets to those held in 1908 which begs the question – why can’t African Americans get ahead? Without turning the matter into the blame game, Richardson addresses the economic disparity and goes one step further diagnosing needed changes to keep the ball rolling. Richardson clearly accounts for the historical reasons, political implications and emotional defects that keep African Americans from taking risks. By using a chronological narrative, interviewing successful African Americans, defining group economics, commenting on the lack of involvement of the Black church and presenting steps for families to change cultural mind sets to appreciate the advantages of embarking on free enterprise endeavors.