In Southern California, there is a tiny town, 98% Hispanic, with a median household income less than HALF the national average. And no one knows about it.

Just north of the Salton Sea is Mecca, population around 6,000. Only 1.6% of Mecca residents have a bachelors degree or higher, compared to the 28% national average. Only 17% of Mecca residents hold a high school diploma, compared to the 85% national average!

Relegated to farming, often paid under the table, the residents of Mecca find few avenues for moving up to taste the "American Dream". Attention is needed to be given to Mecca, especially from the government, to invest in the school system, provide better access to transportation and commerce.

We need to look no further than our own backyard for people living in grave circumstances. Mecca is not a far cry from Mexico.

• 04/12/2007 11:37
  • 03/29/2007 15:31
  • 03/29/2007 15:24