Matthew Desmond, whose Pulitzer Prize winning book Evicted I reviewed several years ago, is back with another must-read book, Poverty, By America. And though it clocks in at a brief 189 pages, this book is a gut punch. Poverty, By America is eye-opening and will make you think.
Poverty, by America has several short, but impactful chapters focusing on topics like why poverty has such a grip on so many people in the United States. When it comes to the United States, money is spent on programs and benefits for people who are struggling. But for the most part, those programs and benefits are just a mere bandage on the problem. Much of our issues with poverty also have to do with low and stagnant wages. A lack of collective bargaining power when it comes to employees dealing with their employers. Plus, because employees pay so little (just look at Wal-Mart), many of these employees rely on government benefits leaving corporations off the hook.
Furthermore, there is so much bias towards those mired in poverty. “What did they do to end up that way?” and “Do these poor people deserve our help?” are questions people often have when it comes to America’s poor people. There are so many hoops poor people have to jump through just to receive a smidge of help. On the other hand, wealthy people aren’t asked to prove their moral worth when it comes to their riches. Also, crimes committed by the wealthy often get a slap on the wrist, and the wealthy have money to hire the best lawyers and suck up to the right politicians. The poor don’t have those advantages.
Desmond goes into great depth focusing on the policies and structures that exploit the poor, and yes, even those who consider themselves middle class. Interestingly enough, a lot of policies enacted in the wake of Covid helped alleviate poverty, yet sadly, these policies were allowed to expire. For readers looking for facts, analysis, and data to back up Desmond’s claims, believe me, he has them in spades.
But all doesn’t have to be doom and gloom. Desmond also provides doable solutions including various reforms. However, these reforms may have naysayers, but Desmond is quick to point out how we all suffer from the poverty of others, and looking into these issues and making an attempt to alleviate poverty can benefit all of us. Of course, it will take a lot to convince others of these things. As Desmond claims, “Poverty will be abolished in America when a mass movement demands it.”
Poverty, By America is a small book that packs a powerful punch. It is one that should be read, truly studied and understood, and maybe, but maybe, enough people will be convinced that poverty affects us all, not just those on the bottom rung.
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