Prompt: Writing About Local Social Issues:
Social issues have to do with relationships between groups of people in society, whether they be ethnic groups, economic groups (rich, poor, middle class, homeless), religious groups, or even racial groups. While we like to think that we live in a society that does not draw lines between groups, the reality is more complex. In my hometown of Fullerton, for example, there is a clear ethnic/economic division that is represented by the railroad tracks. North of the tracks live affluent (predominantly white) people. South of the tracks live poorer (predominantly Latino) people. This exists today, in 2014. What sorts of social problems/issues do you notice in your local community? Once you have identified your topic, research it. The library is a good place to start. You don’t necessarily have to write about a CURRENT social issue. You may research a social issue that occurred in the past if you wish, like school desegretation, the social clubs and organizations, public services and projects, etc. Again, your task is to inform your reader about issues that he/she might not be aware of, right in your own community. Your task in this essay is to open people’s eyes to social issues in the place where they live.
For this essay, you must use at least four outside sources. As always, wikipedia does not count as an academic source. One of your sources MUST be a full-on interview, and it cannot be with family or friends. I would like you to include the transcription of the interview with your essay. You might also visit your local library, and follow local publications like your community newspaper. Your essay must be at least four full pages, typed double-spaced in Times New Roman.