Why do you think poverty still exists in the United States?

It’s been going on for years. It’s a question that’s never been answered. —Alicia Reeves-Cobb, Retired, Dorchester

There’s a lack of jobs and a lack of job training programs. —Dwan Ollison, Parks and Recreation, Mattapan

The rich control the economy. When prices go up, we have less pay. —Jeanetta Donald, Preschool Teaacher, Jamaica Plain

I think it’s because people don’t have access to good-paying jobs. People don’t have a chance to work in fields that pay better wages. —Sarah Flint, Lead Organizer, Roslindale

It’s the tax system. They need to tax wealthy people more. —Terrance Brown, Personal Care Attendant, Roxbury

I think it’s education. When people go to college, they’re allied with the rich. —Theodore Walcott, Retired, Roxbury