Why African Americans Can't Get Ahead

Book excerpt: Have you ever wondered why, despite decades of economic development, civil rights legislation and welfare programs, the economic status of African Americans always seem to lag behind nearly every other group?Why do members of other ethnic groups come to America from foreign countries and, within a few years, own most of the businesses in Black communities and, at the same time, treat us with utter contempt?Even when a few African Americans experience economic success, such as entertainers and athletes, why is it that so many of them end up penniless after generating millions of dollars in wealth for others?For years, the author pondered these same questions. Her research and quest for answers has led to eye-opening revelations about the fabric of American society and the fate of the African-American community.