The System.
“One, people are good. Two, every conflict can be removed. Three, every situation, no matter how complex it initially looks, is exceedingly simple. Four, every situation, can be substantially improved; even the sky is not the limit. Five, every person can reach a full life. Six, there is always a win-win solution…”
Which language do you speak?
Left vs. Right. Democrat vs. Republican. Liberal vs, Conservative.
It’s human context vs. financial context.
The System is created by law.
Special taxes began as a way for local elected officials to give voters something they wanted with the perception that they wouldn’t pay. They’re used to pay for projects like professional sports stadiums and subsidies for profitable companies. Those lead to private profit.
It’s not intention. It’s special taxes.
Special tax laws create economic development partners. They are business organizations based on the assumption “if Charlotte grows, we all win.” The companies that benefit donate to elected officials and foundations. They’ve become our customers.
People in poverty and their care-givers Do not define need.
Politics and “fake news”
Voters are targeted by media and campaigns based on demographic. Problems and issues compete for attention. When we don’t deliver resources to combat poverty, we become more recession sensitive.
We all lose.
Partner or Union?
It’s trickle-down.
It failed.
Charlotte’s response?
Another task force, new programs and policies, an untested assumption. LeadingOnOpportunity.org laid out the argument concerning Systemic Racism. The Mayor’s FY2019 and FY2020 budgets are based on it.
The System provided no long term solution for poverty and homelessness. It said the problem is Systemic Racism. And it isn’t wrong.