Imagine if your local grocery store fired all its cashiers but kept raking in huge profits. That’s what’s happening on Wall Street right now.

The big banks are using artificial intelligence to cut jobs, while at the same time announcing record-breaking earnings. It feels like they’re celebrating their success by turning a blind eye to the struggles of everyday Americans who have no AI to help them find work.

According to official statements from these financial institutions, the layoffs are necessary for maintaining efficiency and competitiveness in an increasingly digital world. But let’s peel back that veneer of technological progress.

Think of it like your household budget: You earn more money but cut expenses by getting rid of things you can’t do without. In this case, the banks are shedding jobs while keeping their profits high, which sounds great on paper until you realize those laid-off workers don’t have an AI program to help them find new employment.

These layoffs hit hard at a time when younger generations are already struggling with student debt and stagnant wages. How do we explain this kind of economic disparity to our children?

I stayed up last night thinking about this, wondering how I could convey the gravity of what’s happening without sounding alarmist.

My late husband used to say that real progress isn’t measured by how well the rich are doing; it's measured by whether those who work hard can make ends meet. Right now, it feels like Wall Street has its head in the clouds while Main Street is losing ground.

I just want people to understand what this disconnect means for future generations. Are we setting them up for a world where AI-driven efficiency leaves no room for human workers?

What can be done about this alarming trend? I believe it’s time for us to ask tough questions and demand transparency from our leaders.