Louisiana ranks near the bottom among states for the overall prosperity of its people, according to the annual American Dream Prosperity Index published by the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream. MCAAD Senior advisor Farah Pandith (FAR-uh PAN-dith) says the news for Louisiana isn’t completely bad however…
“Yes, Louisiana does rank 49th in overall prosperity…bit let’s remember that it is not in a vacuum. You have improved in various areas,” says Pandith.
For example, despite the very low overall rating, Louisiana ranks 17th for Economic Quality. The ADPI compiles by-state data on 11 so-called “pillars of prosperity” and indicators of such, with an eye to what can be improved with public policy. They look at the economy, education, internet connectivity, employment opportunity and more. Pandith says societal problems plague Louisiana, and they’re the same problems seen everywhere…
“Gun violence has increased. Mental health issues have increased. There is a decline in social trust and social cohesion. That is consistent across the country.”
Pandith says parishes with the strongest prosperity indices include St. Tammany, Lafayette, St. Charles, Livingston and Ascension. Among the lowest ranking: East Carroll, West Carroll, Madison, Avoyelles and Washington parishes. Pandith says Claiborne Parish deserves recognition for the most improved quality of life…
“Youth unemployment decreased from 26-percent to just 1.6-percent. I think that’s a really good story.”
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