While personal responsibility and choices definitely play significant roles in an individual's success, it’s important to recognize that the playing field isn’t always level for everyone. Since the BLM has been beaten to death here, take a look at many of America's Native American Reservations. For example, Standing Rock Reservation has an 85-90% unemployment rate. Are you suggesting that almost everyone there is equal to you, but is just lazy and doesn't have your work ethic? Or are you simply smarter than everyone else there? ...or is it partly due because they're stuck in an isolated area intentionally held down due to systematic oppression and racism? ...or does it meet somewhere in the middle? To suggest they have had equal opportunities to either of us is laughable and illustrates your lack real world perspective.
Consider that some people face obstacles that others might not even see. Factors like access to quality education, healthcare, socioeconomic background, and even systemic biases can all impact one’s opportunities, regardless of their work ethic.
So while it’s true that life choices are crucial, it’s also essential to acknowledge that not everyone starts the race from the same line, and sometimes the hurdles placed in front of people aren’t of their making. It’s all part of a larger conversation about creating a society that fosters both opportunity and support for everyone, so we can work toward more equitable outcomes together. We want to encourage hard work, but let’s also make sure not to ignore the systems that can hold people back. Look at us both sound utopian.