America’s Economic Future Requires Inclusive Growth “`

My work with Operation HOPE has shown me that relying solely on the success of white men is insufficient to secure America’s future economic prosperity.

This isn’t a criticism of successful white men, who have significantly contributed to our nation’s economic growth. I want their continued success, as collective success benefits everyone. However, the reality is that a broader base of success is mathematically necessary for sustained economic growth.

Consumer spending drives 70% of the U.S. economy, but the consumer base is diversifying. Minorities now comprise 41% of the population, and by 2044, the U.S. will be a majority-minority nation. Minority groups already possess substantial purchasing power: projected to reach $1.7 trillion by 2030, adding to the existing $3.2 trillion already contributed annually by minority Americans.

These figures clearly demonstrate that a thriving American economy necessitates empowering all citizens—regardless of race, gender, or background—with the resources and opportunities to succeed.

Systemic obstacles continue to hinder many. White Americans hold 80% of the nation’s wealth, despite representing only 65% of households. Women, controlling $10.9 trillion in assets and contributing approximately 30% to the nation’s GDP, face significant barriers to wealth building and equal income opportunities. These disparities pose not only ethical concerns, but also significant economic risks. Neglecting them will limit the potential of millions of future consumers, entrepreneurs, and leaders.

Financial literacy is the paramount civil rights issue of our time, as it underpins economic mobility, enabling individuals to thrive rather than just survive within a challenging system. Our work at Operation HOPE demonstrates how teaching credit management, wealth-building, and entrepreneurship can dramatically transform lives. One example is an Atlanta woman who, after our financial coaching, eliminated $30,000 in debt, boosted her credit score by 200 points, and bought her first home.

Imagine this transformative impact multiplied across millions of households. This is the true meaning of diversity and inclusion—not just equity, but economic opportunity for all.

Operation HOPE’s partnerships with banks, community outreach, and work with Fortune 500 companies to diversify leadership show that inclusion isn’t merely ethical; it’s strategically sound. I tell CEOs that inclusion is not charity—it’s excellent business. The future workforce and consumer base will be vastly different. Companies failing to adapt will fall behind.

Policymakers must also act. This involves investing in education, expanding access to affordable housing, and supporting minority-owned businesses.

Directly addressing the racial wealth gap is crucial. The average Black family possesses only one-tenth the wealth of the average white family—a disparity reflecting decades of discriminatory policies. While financial literacy is essential, systemic changes are necessary for true equity.

This isn’t a Black issue, a Brown issue, or a women’s issue; it’s an American issue. Our economic strength hinges on the strength of all participants.

Few things change lives as profoundly as faith or love, except improving one’s credit score by 120 points. Financial inclusion is transformative—for individuals and the nation.

The number of white men alone is insufficient to sustain the American economy. But this isn’t a problem; it’s an opportunity. An opportunity to build a future where everyone has a chance to succeed. A future where our diversity is not a challenge but our greatest asset.

Let’s embrace this opportunity together.