Final answer:
The accessibility of the American Dream of homeownership has been questioned, especially in light of economic challenges and social inequities. While homeownership rates increased prior to the 2008 financial crisis, in the aftermath, many Americans faced obstacles, making the dream less attainable for some.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question of whether the American Dream of homeownership is accessible for all is a complex one. Historically, homeownership rates increased from 64% to over 69% between 2004 and 2005, suggesting a period where housing became more accessible to many Americans. However, the global financial crisis that began in 2008 had a significant impact, causing job losses and increasing unemployment rates, which in turn could have made homeownership less attainable for many.
The June 2014 CBS News Poll reflects a changing perspective, with six out of ten respondents doubting the attainability of the American Dream. Furthermore, the work of Matthew Desmond emphasizes the struggle of poor people, often marginalized by race, to access housing and thereby questions whether housing should be considered a fundamental American right. This feeds into the debate about whether the American Dream continues to be a realistic objective, especially for those who are socially or economically disadvantaged.
Despite difficulties, the dream of owning a home remains a cherished part of American life for many, but its accessibility is heavily contingent on various factors including economic stability, social equity, and the effectiveness of legal and financial systems in supporting potential homeowners. The idea that the American Dream involves opportunity and hard work is still prevalent, but the path to achieving it is arguably more challenging than in previous decades.