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While the recession seems to improve economic conditions for most of American society, Black men still face record levels of homicide and unemployment. Further, Black men obtaining the lowest levels of education doesn’t serve to change the situation. Consider a day in the life of Isaac who deals with all of these issues while thinking of the best ways to get ahead.

Isaac’s head was spinning. Between dealing with his nephew in the juvenile center and the news crush of no indictments in Ferguson, Missouri and New York City, he saw no end in sight.  Isaac, a Black man in his late 20s, was once off to a good start. He cruised through his community college classes to earn his Associate’s, but just couldn’t find the money to complete his Bachelor’s.

Somehow his sister’s kid became his responsibility when her boyfriend was shot on the West Side over a snowball fight of all things. Isaac was trying to find his way clear, but this American dream didn’t just slip through his fingers, it never presented itself.  How in the world did Obama do it?

Trying to block out the latest sensationalized updates about another Black man getting killed, Isaac pulls up to the job.  He was a decent assistant manager at the appliance store, but needed that four-year degree to get into the management training program. The salesgirls were giggling about the latest episode of Empire and some Nicki Minaj video.

Isaac just shook his head and looked at his watch. It was only 8:50 a.m.  But nothing ever changes. He walks into his manager’s office.

“The district manager will be here this afternoon,” Jason, his manager tells him. “Shelia likes a clean store; make sure your sections are spotless. Oh, and over lunch I can go over the numbers so you sound intelligent. Here’s the last report.”

Isaac’s head was still spinning.  This is way too serious – district numbers, prime time drama. Didn’t anyone care that another Black man was gunned down? He didn’t want to end up like that.

Isaac punched in and started thinking about the afternoon. He needed to get ahead; he needed the extra chips but without a degree he felt stuck. He looked at the book his manager gave him. He then remembered the dry cleaning and the barber. Isaac decided to be extra clean for the afternoon.

Despite Jason’s offer to update information, Isaac instead disappeared at lunch to pick up a freshly pressed shirt and get a haircut. By the time Isaac returned to the store, Shelia had pulled in right behind him. Isaac was ready and strolled over to her car.

With a toothy grin, he waves as she turns off the ignition.

“Welcome to the store Shelia, we have been waiting for you…” He opens the door for her and offers to carry her briefcase.

Flirting To The Top?: What Strategies Really Help Black Men Advance On The Job?  was originally published on blackdoctor.org

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