Understanding the root causes of poverty in society and within ourselves is a crucial step in our efforts to combat it (Creamer et al., 2021). Individuals can contribute in many ways, such as voting and supporting policies that reduce economic inequality (Creamer et al., 2021). One effective strategy is advocating for policies that increase access to education and job training programs, raise the minimum wage, and provide affordable healthcare and housing (Creamer et al., 2021). We can achieve a world without poverty (Creamer et al., 2021).
Systemic inequities and discrimination play a significant role in perpetuating poverty (Creamer et al., 2021). For instance, a study by John Creamer and colleagues in a 2014 report by the Brookings Institute (Creamer et al., 2021) revealed that African American and Hispanic Americans are disproportionately affected by poverty compared to Whites. This imbalance is not due to a higher number of Black or Brown individuals in the population but rather due to systemic factors (Creamer et al., 2021). Historical injustices, limited educational and job opportunities, and housing discrimination all contribute to higher poverty rates among certain minority groups (Creamer et al., 2021).
Understanding poverty variations across different communities is not just important; it’s crucial (Creamer et al., 2021). In an urban context, low-income communities become isolated from resources while waiting for high-income housing to be ‘gentrified.’ On the other hand, rural poverty may be due to the absence of infrastructure, limited access to healthcare and education facilities, and dependency on seasonal employment (Creamer et al., 2021). To tackle these diverse challenges, a comprehensive approach is needed to address every aspect of poverty (Creamer et al., 2021). For stronger rebuilding, policymakers must take immediate action to provide fair economic relief for all (Creamer et al., 2021).
Due to different social, economic, and political circumstances, poverty can vary from country to country (Creamer et al., 2021). For example, political instability and corruption in developing nations can result in a lack of social safety nets and limited access to essential services, significantly contributing to widespread poverty (Creamer et al., 2021). On the other hand, in some developed countries, significant income disparities can arise due to job uncertainty, and welfare programs may perpetuate poverty or impact a portion of the population that struggles to escape these conditions (Creamer et al., 2021).
In summary, it’s crucial to understand the various personal and societal factors that contribute to economic suffering (Creamer et al., 2021). By supporting fair policy approaches, addressing structural injustices, and promoting social equity, we can develop meaningful and far-reaching solutions to poverty (Creamer et al., 2021).
