Henry L. English, President and CEO of the Black United Fund of Illinois agreed. He said disparities between Blacks and Whites is partly because White teens typically have more businesses in their communities and have a better chance of landing a job.
“They’re not really competing with the seniors. Some of them are but not many. They’re not competing with some of the adults so there are some opportunities there. There’s just not enough opportunities for our young people in our own communities,” added Mr. English.
Founded in 1985 Black United Fund of Illinois offers assistance, programs and support services to young people and adults statewide.
When larger merchants left, smaller stores and businesses were left behind or moved in. They were not owned by Blacks.
“Typically when you talk, Korean and Arab-owned store merchants, they do not hire from the community. They don’t trust folks in our community. If you’ve been in stores, they’ll sit on ladders the minute you open the door. In some cases, I’ve experienced it; they want you to put the money on the counter. They don’t want to touch it coming out of your hand,” said Mr. Nelson.