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University of Wisconsin–Madison
Poverty-related issues in the news, from the Institute for Research on Poverty

Tag: Politics

Politics and Poverty

How do Americans view poverty? Many blue-collar whites, key to Trump, criticize poor people as lazy and content to stay on welfare, By David Lauter, August 14, 2016, Los Angeles Times: “Sharp differences along lines of race and politics shape American attitudes toward the poor and poverty, according to a new survey of public opinion, which finds empathy toward the poor and deep skepticism about government antipoverty efforts.  The differences illuminate some of the passions that have driven this year’s contentious presidential campaign.  But the poll, which updates a survey The Times conducted three decades ago, also illustrates how attitudes about poverty have remained largely consistent over time despite dramatic economic and social change…”

Faith Communities Addressing Poverty

Milwaukee faith communities begin charting changes in fighting poverty, By Anyssa Johnson, June 4, 2014, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: “Wisconsin’s faith communities are at the forefront of addressing the symptoms of poverty in the state. Food pantries, health clinics, housing initiatives — there is no shortage of faith-based programs aimed at serving what the Gospel of Matthew calls ‘the least of these.’ But people of faith have a moral obligation to change the social and political structures that are widening the gulf between the rich and poor and leaving large numbers of Wisconsinites — especially children — behind, faith leaders said Wednesday at a Milwaukee symposium on poverty. They began charting that change Wednesday . . .”