Addressing Current Issues: Choose one of the three essays below and, in your own words, state and outline the issue, pick specific components you would like to address, and then describe your solution. Be sure to identify any partners or resources you need to accomplish your goal.
Essay 1:
Black households have a fraction of the wealth of white households, leaving them
in a much more precarious financial situation when a crisis strikes and with fewer
financial assistance opportunities. Wealth allows households to weather a
financial emergency such as a layoff or a family member’s illness. The lack of
financial security continues to have devastating results for the Black community.
How would you address the issue of the Wealth Gap in the African American
community? Outline the initiative(s) and policies you want to gain support to
address the issue. Identify key stakeholders, obstacles, and strategic partnerships. Highlight the elected officials you would engage to champion policy changes.
Essay 2:
Student loan debt is yet another impediment to building and sustaining black wealth. Research shows that 86.6% of Black college students take out federal loans to attend four-year colleges, compared to just 59.9% of white students. A Black graduate from a four-year college has, on average, $7,400 more in student debt. Additionally, Black students are also more likely to default on their loans than their white peers. Many efforts and initiatives have been discussed and programs implemented to address student loan debt and loan forgiveness.
Discuss this issue, outlining the factors contributing to loan defaultation.
Choose one or more factors to address and how you would influence policy to resolve the problem.
Essay 3:
Present an issue that you feel needs more awareness. Outline the problem
defining the significant barriers and opportunities.
What is your proposed public policy solution? How would you address the issue? How would you gain support for the issue, i.e., individuals or groups you would contact for support?