Social Stratification and Inequality

Whether society likes it or not, inequality occurs in America. It is a matter that has been discussed in the past and present, yet not many measures have been taken to help take care of the problem. I closely read an article by a senior organizer and research associate at the Institute for Policy Studies in Washington which touches upon the topic of a black and white split in our country. “Sociologists have long documented the fact that the class system is more rigid for African Americans than it is for members of other racial groups” (Schaefer 143). This issue dates all the way back to slavery in America and unequal treatment towards people of color. All this strain on our nation has lead us to believe that we are moving toward two societies, one being black and the other white. This creates a separate and unequal result for Americans. The reason for inequality occurring in America is that we are not making the proper strides toward eliminating the tension. The article titled, “Change to Believe In” talks about the current situation with inequality issues that have been arising for decades. It also talks about how Barack Obama believes that civil rights are a topic to be discussed. “Obama highlights the issue by mentioning income inequality, a rise in hate crimes, the suppression of minority voters, and racial disparities in the criminal justice system” (Muhammad). Obama identifies that the current ethnic divide still confronts our country. Blacks are disadvantaged relative to whites in terms of income and currently earn 57 cents on every dollar that white Americans earn. The statistics are staring us right in the face, and yet seem to keep being ignored. America hopes for Obama’s candidacy to help resolve the black and white divide, however more needs to be done than just the obvious. Action is the key word to help create a more all around equal nation. Perhaps, a look back into history to see how things have changed since slavery occurred and