Photo credit: Oli Scarff/Getty Images
By Roy Douglas Malonson
“Welfare’s purpose should be to eliminate, as far as possible, the need for its own existence.”-President Ronald Reagan
America first developed its national welfare system in 1935, as a result of the effects of the Great Depression. On January 4, 1935, President Roosevelt announced in his State of the Union Address that, “the time has come for action by the national government, to provide security against the major hazards and vicissitudes of life.”
Thus, the welfare system was established out of the necessity of hardship on American citizens. Since that time, several generations of families have survived off of its assistance for survival. However, there have been many untruths about the actual individuals who rely on the system. So, it is time to set the record straight.
We MUST Understand, for too long members of the African-American community and other minority groups have suffered racist and discriminatory stereotypical labels that are just not factual. It never ceases to amaze me how people can judge an entire culture based off of a portion of the individuals who are a part of it.
Throughout the years, Black folks and other minorities have always been labeled as the largest population of those who receive welfare benefits. But according to statistics it is actually the other way around.
In an article printed in Newsweek entitled, Trump Thinks Only Black People are on Welfare, But Really, White Americans Receive Most Benefits, Ryan Sit provides statistics on the subject.
He states, “Whites are the biggest beneficiaries when it comes to government safety-net programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, commonly referred to as welfare.”
He further explains, “White people without a college degree ages 18 to 64 are the largest class of adults lifted out of poverty by such programs.” According to the Think Tank’s 2017 report, “6.2 million working-age Whites were lifted above the poverty line in 2014, compared to 2.8 million Blacks and 2.4 million Hispanics.”
In 2015, the Department of Agriculture provided details regarding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP or food stamps). It found that, “Just over 40 percent of SNAP recipients are White, another 25.7 percent are Black, 10.3 percent are Hispanic, 2.1 percent are Asian, and 1.2 percent are Native American.”
Now these are not little White lies, but in fact, the truth about Welfare.
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
