Of course, one can make the argument that if a person has worked hard enough, they should be able to help not only themselves but also their families have a good life.

But we know that's not how it works. That's how it should work, but I think the past couple of years have really put a spotlight on how our society truly penalizes the poor.

...but I believe the solution is to fix racism and sexism at their root instead of using equity to “balance it out” by placing more emphasis on hiring women and non-whites.

What incentive do White men have to do such a thing? And yes, it's on all of us to fix the problems of society but too many of us view it as a zero-sum game. And White men have been on a winning streak for so long they don't know how to lose.