Quote Originally Posted by ironchef
This I can't agree with. People always have the means to change their situation for the good. The problem is they choose not to work hard enough to get where they want.

Case in point, my parents. We moved here in 93 with no money, no ability to speak english, and no assistance besides the first apartment we had was subsidized thanks to the Jewish Community Center. My parents were making something to the effect of $4-5/hr at the time. But they busted ass nonstop, and now today they combine to make well over 6 figures, own their own cars, house, this, that, and the third. So, you cant expect me to believe that people who have lived here their whole life and have a distinct comparative advantage in the language department can't make something more of themselves.
Just because they make more doesn't necessarily mean they're advantaged.. not everyone can achieve 6 figures, otherwise your parents would just be considered middle class. You will always have blue collar workers, those who come and get your garbage every week, teach your children, pave your roads and those people give just as much to society if not more than some "wealthy." It is wrong to not consider them on a level to have healthcare provided to them.

I commend you and your parents for how far you've come.. that truly is the american dream but not everyone aspires to be wealthy.. some value their service over their compensation and they should not be left out to dry because of that choice.