From 1975-1985, fans watched George and Louise enjoy their deluxe apartment in the sky on the CBS sitcom “The Jeffersons.” However, between 11 seasons of laughs and engaging storylines, audience members weren’t ever quite given the recipe for a proverbial “piece of the pie,” as Ja’Net DuBois sings in the show’s theme song “Movin’ On Up.”
Although the well-to-do, Black family representation was historic and important, the couple’s life was a far cry from reality for many African Americans during the time the show aired and today.
In the United States, the racial wealth gap is stark. According to 2024 U.S. Census report white households with a white “householder had 10 times more wealth than those with a Black householder in 2021.”
While keeping up with the Joneses or Jeffersons should never be the goal, closing the racial financial gap is truly the prize, at least for The Washington Informer.
This October — National Financial Planning Month and National Pizza Month — The Washington Informer is helping readers learn how to “finally [get] a piece of the pie.”
From a piece about pathways toward financial freedom in Maryland, to roads toward generational wealth, challenges contributing to the wealth gap, and a story highlighting a Black pizza entrepreneur, this special edition has so much information to save and build money for now and the future.
Moreover, this edition is sponsored by several organizations to encourage financial planning in the Washington region and nationwide, not only in October, but year-round.
This financial planning month is about more than just getting a piece of the pie, it’s about building the whole pizza — toppings and all — for generations to come.
Particularly at a time when all Americans are navigating steadily rising gas, grocery and household expenses, financial planning is critical to stay afloat while also setting goals for the future.
“Regardless of household income, financial planning is beneficial at every stage of life, particularly when rising prices are making it harder for families to reach their goals,” said Rep. Joyce Beatty in a November 2025 statement, when she co-introduced a resolution to designate October as National Financial Planning Month. “As co-chair of the Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus, I am committed to expanding access to trusted financial guidance for hardworking Americans. As families prepare for holiday spending and look ahead to a new year, this month is a timely reminder of the importance of financial planning in helping to build stability, confidence, and long-term economic well-being.”
