Feedback Goes Both Ways
One Way Dialogue Is Simply A Lecture
One of the most peculiar aspects of the Black Lives Matter movement was that it delivered unending lectures to white people about what they have done wrong to create a horrible life experience for seemingly all black people living in the Western world. Beyond the absurdity of the premise, the communication was consistently one way. The movement has focused heavily on systemic racism as the root of inequality, urging white Americans to bear the burden of change. If systemic racism were the root of inequality, black people would never have made the incredible progress in education, wealth creation, and community development from 1910 to 1960. This was during a time when systemic racism was integrated into the legal framework of the country.
While systemic issues deserve attention, this approach frequently dismisses the value of mutual accountability and honest feedback. Progress demands that all sides engage in respectful, data-driven conversations to tackle challenges like generational poverty. The current dynamic stifles productive exchange. For example, addressing the impact of fatherless homes—a factor strongly correlated with poverty—is often labeled as blaming victims. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 65% of Black children live in single-parent households compared to 24% of white children, and studies, like those from the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), show that children in two-parent homes are less likely to face economic hardship. Yet, raising this point risks accusations of insensitivity. Similarly, critiques of cultural trends, like the glorification of materialism and sexism in some urban music, are dismissed as prejudicial, despite their influence on young people’s values.
This month, I attended the Old Parkland Conference 2025 at AEI. The lineup included luminaries like a Nobel laureate and MIT-trained economists, all committed to evidence-based solutions to America’s greatest challenges. Several speakers shared how their research on black communities—whether on education, family structure, or economic mobility—required cautious framing to avoid backlash from progressive critics. They were happy to be at the Old Parkland Conference where open debate and data are the basis of discussion.
One economist noted that her data showing the benefits of two-parent households drew accusations of ‘victim-blaming.” She told me that after her most recent book was published, her university did little to support the book. I have read about one third of the book. The research is excellent. Yet, the professor spends too much time at the beginning of the book almost apologizing for the recommendations her exceptional research spotlights. She is eager to avoid being labeled racist. Our best minds should not have to operate in that type of an environment. It benefits no one and discourages honest inquiry.
The liberal establishment often portrays black Americans as needing pity rather than partnership. This patronizing stance underestimates the resilience and potential of black communities. Most black Americans, as polls like those from Rasmussen Reports indicate, want practical opportunities—better schools, safer neighborhoods, and economic growth—not endless apologies.
To move forward, we need courageous, two-way communication. First, policymakers should incentivize family stability through multiple initiatives including tax credits for married couples, as stable homes correlate with better outcomes for children. Second, communities should foster open forums where all perspectives—on culture, policy, and accountability—can be discussed without fear of censorship. These steps, grounded in data and mutual respect, can accelerate progress.
America’s future depends on solving generational poverty. By embracing honest dialogue and shared responsibility, we can build a stronger, more united nation.