Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu, noted psychologist and author, said only 12 percent of Black boys are on grade level. Marian Wright Edelman of the Children’s Defense Fund said over 80 percent cannot read on grade level. There is a direct relationship between literacy and the ability to get a job said Mr. Jackson.
Black boys are not being educated in schools for economics or academics, but for self-destruction he warned.
Varying reports on the status of young, Black men spark conversations, symposiums, conferences and panel discussions, but where are the results?
They are presented with limited options said Mr. Jackson. “They don’t have the option of college, military or decent paying jobs. Their option becomes, ‘how do I make money illegally.’”
The question has to be raised, is this by design? asked Mr. Jackson. “In order to get to this level of dis-functionality, it almost has to be intentional,” he added.