American Dream Unattainability

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Shalynn Landix Ms. Lloyd English II H May 15 2024 The American Dream and its Unattainability Among the vast population of America, many have personal dreams and aspirations. Certain situations usually inspire certain goals, though in the case of America as a whole, it is a certain notion that has been seemingly passed down for years and generations to come. This notion happens to be the infamous American Dream. Though the literal definition of it is unclear, the idea is that the American Dream is when one attains a successful life by working hard, having a family, having a high-paying job, living in a nice home, etc. All of these attributes are desirable, but despite this fact, the majority of American citizens never truly achieve it. Despite …show more content…
Additionally, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the white homeownership rate as of the fourth quarter of 2017 was 72.7 percent, while the black homeownership rate was 42.1 percent—the largest such disparity since World War II. The Pew Charitable Trusts. This reflects the biases in lending practices, housing policies, and access to resources, further amplifying economic disparities along with the cycle of inequality. These disparities in wealth and homeownership rates highlight the legacy of discrimination and unequal access to opportunities faced by Black Americans. Systemic injustices not only hinder economic advancement but also preserve social inequality, making the American Dream seen as an unrealistic aspiration for marginalized …show more content…
Their view that the American dream still holds true has dropped by 35 points, from 56% in 2010 to 21% now (ABC News). These statistics reflect a growing disappointment with the American Dream, as people continue to question its validity and their ability to achieve mobility and success through hard work alone. As doubts about the American Dream continue to increase, it prompts a reconsideration of the promise of America. The American Dream, perceived as an attainable ideal of prosperity and opportunity, has come under increasing questioning in society. Through observations of wealth disparities, homeownership rates, and shifting attitudes towards social mobility, it becomes evident that for many Americans, the dream is unattainable. Discrimination, such as systemic and economic inequalities, obstruct the path to success for marginalized
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