Such was the world my grandparents grew up in. Before ORS became commonplace. They are in their 80s.

Not dying of fever or diarrhea

I’ve no idea what CRT is but I’d like to simply answer why DEI kinda things are needed separate from poverty alleviation.

Axiomatically, I want best person for a given job and a level playing field for all. This is the kind of society I want to build.

Say there is universal basic income or universal basic services. Yay, now anyone can get free education or wait until they get job they aspire too, etc.

Do we progress towards the kind of society mentioned previously? Likely not because there are other factors like network, culture and habits that shape how we/others view us and our capabilities. Hence, mentors, counseling, special training, etc are needed.