In the recent article “Why More Education Won’t Fix Income Inequality” featured in The New York Times, Neil Irwin illustrates that encouraging more working and middle class Americans to obtain a college education will not solve income inequality in this country. He states that positing higher education as a means for solving economic inequality is a position that a wide array of political groups can agree upon, because it’s so agreeable and “who doesn’t favor a stronger educational system?”

As you may know, The Elmezzi Foundation supports organizations that work with those that do not have adequate access to tools for success in American society. Our core principles guide us in our work to provide opportunities to under-served neighborhoods through support for the elderly, medical research, youth development, and education. We believe that anyone, given the right tools and support, can live a successful, fulfilling life. From our work over the years we have seen the benefits of providing educational supports and resources for the disadvantaged. We agree that while education has the ability to serve as a stepping stone for economic achievement and stability, it has to be combined with jobs, crime reduction, community development among other investments. But for many low income communities access to college education has better odds in helping individuals and families exit the cycle of generational poverty.  Have thoughts on this issue? We both welcome and encourage your opinions and insight on our Facebook and Twitter pages!

Check out the full NY Times article here.