One in Five Men Age 25-54 Do Not Have Jobs

This Article from the Philadelphia Inquirer examines the plight of the middle-aged American male.  It cites National statistics indicating that 1 in 5 American men age 25-54 do not have jobs (it was 1 out of 20 in the 1960s).  The Article suggests that the statistics for men without college educations are even more disconcerting.

The numbers for African American men in that age bracket in the Philadelphia area are even more dire. The Article says thirty percent of African American men aged 24-54 don't have a job to go to.  If you are a male African American without a High School education (something more acceptable in the 50s and 60s when the region was overflowing with industrial job opportunities), then the numbers in Philadelphia are 1-3.   

To make matters worse (and those words truly do not do justice to this situation), some experts opine that many men aged 40-60 without college educations who are not working now may never work again.  I don't think you have to be an expert to draw that sad conclusion.

Simply stated, how can our Nation survive such a situation?  How can we stand by and allow this to happen?  What can be done? The economic impact, the psychological impact, the societal impact, all are devastating.

I wish I had answers, but of course I don't. Thoughts, I have.

Federal government-sponsored relocation packages for those willing to move to more job-friendly regions.  Starting your own business (government lending programs for new business owners are available).  Reducing the City of Philadelphia's exorbitant taxes to stimulate job growth. Passing a City Ordinance making it illegal to discriminate against those with criminal records (financial duress and despair/hopelessness can lead to crime, no matter your skin color or upbringing - they shouldn't, but they do), a history of unemployment or bad credit. Increasing the number of state or locally-funded public utility projects (fixing roads, rehabbing buildings, etc.)

We all win when we all work.  We all lose when we don't all work. It really is that simple.

Have thoughts on how we can constructively address this situation?  Please post a Comment.

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