considering I was able to on min wage as a minority, and know many others who have as well, it’s hard for me to sympathize
Minimum wage where I am is $13.69, and there isn't a property within 50 miles of me for less than $200,000. There's empty plots of land for that much, but nothing with a structure that's livable.
But I take it your retort will be "just move somewhere else."
Just because you managed it where you are, doesn't mean anyone can do it, anywhere.
When your rent is 70% of your income it's a touch hard to save for a down payment/maintain good credit/pay for schooling to upskill. That's the reality some of us live in.