Discreet Racism and Lack of Employment

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10/28/2006
Memphis would not be my first choice for a city but I say the same thing about Atlanta, GA where I lived for 8 years. Unlike Atlanta, Memphis lacks the diversity and job growth, clubs and restaurants, but that is about it. Many areas look just like many areas in Atlanta. However, Memphis has a down home feel. There is a low cost of living and hey everyone, crime is everywhere. I know. I moved to Atlanta on a Wednesday from Jackson, MS and on Thursday morning I awoke to find my car window smashed and everything stolen. Needless to say, this happened several times since then while living in GA. There is a lot of racism in Memphis, however, (I can't believe I'm saying this because I am black) I can somewhat understand it. Many of the African Americans don't even try which is so puzzling. Many times I am driving to work and I pass so many just standing on the street corners or sitting on their porches. THe mentality in Memphis of many young African Americans is really bad. I know several young women that refuse to buy a home to raise their kids in (usually several) because they don't want Uncle Sam to find out about their side income and cut their welfare benefits. "Unbelievable". That is what hurts the most in Memphis, Many young blacks don't even try to work and better themselves. They are comfortable at the bottom. Their is a lot of racial tension and very few jobs which lead to a lot of crime. I hope Memphis changes for the better in the future.
June | Memphis, TN