I think it’s been fine for the most part. Other than the dude that’s been throwing out the slander with inbred, “mountain” people, and backwoods references. Each time it’s a different name called. At least it’s not repetitive, I guess.

The irony of using stereotypical slurs to devalue a group in order to defend a group that has historically faced stereotypical slurs to devalue them is not lost on me.

I think elevating the under privileged is a noble ambition. But I believe it needs to start much sooner than the Aviate program — probably by age 9. With the Aviate program OTOH, the folks that are even capable of passing the varied licenses and certifications are already on a good path likely because they’re already in a good situation. Good education, good parents, and good community. Probability-wise, the candidates that are receiving a nod from Aviate likely have never experienced prejudice and discrimination in any sense. Most likely come from middle class homes with good parents.

If the program focused on the economically/familial underprivileged, there would be a disproportionate impact that would positively impact historically marginalized communities while also avoiding the needless discrimination against poor non-black and non-Hispanic groups. That’s something that would be more egalitarian, IMO.

I also agree that it is crazy that this is being discussed in 2023, but more from the fact that we are three full generations after the Civil Rights passage and still using race in a political narrative to divide and disrupt for political gain.