<p>I encourage everyone to read the posts by Jamma on the thread comparing AA to Africans. His insights helped me look at the situation differently.</p>
<p>I go to an upscale high school. About 20% of the student body is AA. Sadly, only one AA is in the top half of our class. The rest just don’t seem to try at all. They are capable students but they just don’t seem to care. This wasn’t true in junior high, but once they entered high school, they quit trying. One of my AA friends who I know is bright told me that to most AA it’s not cool to do well in school. She said she “wouldn’t feel black” if she tried to achieve academically. I don’t know where that mentality started but it seems to me that that mindset – much more than quality of schools, role models, etc. – is the root cause of the problem.</p>
<p>I also think that having two parents at home encouraging you to do well is very important. I am Asian. Every Asian I know has two parents at home who expect academic success. No AA I know has two parents at home. I think this situation also needs to be addressed before the problem can be solved. I think that is what President Obama was emphasizing. </p>
<p>In my school, anyone can achieve if they try hard. No prejudice or hate could stop a student who is dedicated. The opportunities to succeed is there for all, regardless of color. Again, I think this was Obama’s message.</p>