Young people are often the best indicators of inequality because they are part of a system of which they did not create. Poverty among Black and Latino children is 34% and 28% respectively, compared to their White counterparts at 9.7%. Young people are least likely to be insured, and this generation represents the first generations not expected to earn as much as their parents or guardians. People of color are less likely to make it to the “middle class” and are more likely to fall out of the “middle class” compared to their white counterparts.

Despite the historic presidential election, the first step to real change is acknowledging the problem not transcending it before its been addressed. When we understand the problem, then we can implement comprehensive solutions. People of color are not doing well, however it is not because of individual failure, but due to the culmination of systemic inequity that continues to go unaddressed.

On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, United for a Fair Economy will be releasing State of the Dream 2009, a report documenting the depression-like economic reality for people of color created by faulty “color blind” policies and laisse faire economics. Together we have a unique opportunity to fulfill the promise of this great country. We need to demand community-centered holistic policy that recognizes that inherent worth of every person, regardless of race, class, gender or sexuality.