Julian Robinson, 43, of New Orleans, is currently unemployed ,but aspires to become a paralegal. Photo By Megan Jamerson

By Megan Jamerson

Julian Robinson has a simple demand and a simple need.

It is a warm Louisiana day and Robinson, 43, leans against the brick wall of his apartment complex to seek shelter from the sun. He wears a tidy mustache, and a shaved head. He is articulate and animated and has a message for the city of New Orleans.

Give us an opportunity, give us a chance,” he said. “Let us show we can be productive citizens and really work hard to provide for our families.”

With over half of working age black men experiencing unemployment, frustration and desperation have become an all too common story. They face an economy where the majority of available jobs are temporary and pay wages too low to support their families. Many become discouraged and drop out of the labor force all together. Despite these hurdles, a few like Robinson still have hope.

View Megan Jamerson’s multimedia report by clicking here.