One must not take dreams for granted. I am not referring to the kind of dreams one has when asleep. Rather the dreams we hold dear when our eyes are wide open- that 'aspiration, ambition/ ideal.'
We speak of the American Dream in the U.S. as the one we learned from parents/ teachers's lips, " You can be anything you want to be. Just work hard and you can achieve it with determination and initiative. " Rewritten nowadays by those in power as: Individualism, Universalism, Success, and Materialism.”
Barriers exist for the majority of Americans in the economic gap impeded by gender, race and social standing. And sure our chances for success may be diminished by inflation /job situation.If we are of an immigrant status there's language as well as working restrictions.
The documentary The Barber of Little Rock speaks of generational poverty. How does one get a leg up if those in power decide who has access to the American Dream? If neighborhoods don't have business ownership possibilities in their own neighborhoods nor banks and banking due to red lining, how can they flourish?
Not only do Arlo Washington's barber school students receive the benefit of his knowledge for good barber skills but also how to establish a business. He has served as a mentor to more than his 1900 graduates, he has also put in sweat equity to establish a credit union to help his community with their dreams.
Loans have been and are being repaid and this ability to pay bills is now being realized as well as is the pride of ownership and it's empowering new business owners thanks to his efforts.
After the Q&A of the documentary The Barber in Little Rock showing Sunday, Mayor Scott proclaimed it Arlo Washington Day. An honor well deserved.
How can we not feel pride to have such a wonderful giving person in our City?
May many more rise to the occasion of empowering all to fulfill their American Dream.
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