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According to Wilson, what are the serious problems that exist in urban black ghettos?

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Final answer:

Wilson points out that urban black ghettos face environmental racism, poverty due to lack of economic opportunities and persistent racial discrimination, high rates of unemployment, crime, and violence, and a lack of effective advocacy and media representation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Wilson highlighted several serious problems existing in urban black ghettos. These issues include environmental hazards, such as air, water, and ground pollution, which are typically more severe in poor, minority neighborhoods. This has led to the term environmental racism, as these communities often end up serving as dumping grounds for a variety of social ills and civic disamenities.

Historically, black neighborhoods have suffered from a lack of well-paying jobs, persistent racial discrimination, and legacies of slavery and segregation impacting their economic stability. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 provided opportunities for some, but as members of the black middle class left these neighborhoods, the remaining population often found itself mired in poverty and losing strong community ties. These areas continue to struggle with high rates of crime and violence, and there appears to be disparate police activities as well.

Post-World War II African American migration to Northern cities resulted in white flight and urban decay. Urban schools and employment opportunities deteriorated, especially affecting African Americans who faced higher unemployment rates. In addition, frustration and anger due to inadequate healthcare, employment opportunities, and housing led to urban disruptions such as riots, pointing to the disillusionment with federal support and civil rights leadership.

Finally, the urban poor, including those facing homelessness, receive little advocacy, and their plight is often ignored by the suburban populace and underrepresented in the media. This lack of awareness and advocacy exacerbates the segregation and neglect of urban black ghettos.

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