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The Whiteness of Wealth: How the Tax System Impoverishes Black Americans - and How We Can Fix It

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In the United States, the tax system has long been touted as fair and equitable, but a closer look reveals a far more complex picture. For decades, the tax code has disproportionately benefited white Americans, allowing them to keep their wealth intact while Black and Brown individuals are forced to work harder and pay more in taxes. This phenomenon is known as the "whiteness of wealth," where the systemic advantages perpetuate economic inequality.

A study by the Tax Policy Center found that between 1979 and 2017, the top 1% of earners in the US saw their tax rates decrease from 91% to just 37%. Meanwhile, middle-class whites paid a higher tax rate than Black Americans, who made up nearly half of the population. This disparity has significant consequences, including lower life expectancy, poorer health outcomes, and limited access to quality education and housing.

It's time to address this unfair system and create a more level playing field. A comprehensive overhaul of the tax code is necessary, one that rewards hard work and entrepreneurship while taxing the wealthy at a reasonable rate. By doing so, we can ensure a brighter future for all Americans - regardless of their skin color or socioeconomic background.