NPR

'There Isn't A Just Housing Choice': How We've Enabled The Pains Of Gentrification

Decades of unjust policies have led to the devaluing of lower-income neighborhoods. But urban sociologist John Schlichtman says closing the gap between revaluing and devaluing can minimize inequities.
A recently renovated Mariachi Plaza is pictured in Boyle Heights, Calif., is a Hispanic and low-income neighborhood of Los Angeles that's fighting hard to prevent gentrification, the threat of escalating rents and "washed out" identity.

Gentrification is no longer something that just happens in low-income neighborhoods. As the phenomenon displaces communities of color, from Inglewood to Washington, D.C., "gentrification" has been co-opted to include food and culture as well. So, what does the loaded term really mean?

According to urban sociologist John Schlichtman, gentrification cannot happen without disinvestment. In the book , Schlichtman and his co-authors, Marc

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR2 min readAmerican Government
With Federal Fraud Trial Looming, George Santos Drops Out Of New York House Race
The scandal-plagued former Republican congressman, ousted from his House seat last year, abandoned his long-shot independent bid for Congress. But he suggested his political career may not be over.
NPR3 min read
'Tales Of Kenzera: ZAU': A Deep Story About Grief Leavened By Satisfying Gameplay
New action platformer Tales of Kenzera: ZAU delivers a moving story, sleek traversal, and a brilliant setting gleaming with Afro-futurist highlights. It's just not as meaty as competing Metroidvanias.
NPR3 min readCrime & Violence
Pro-Palestinian Protests Spread To The Campuses Of USC And The University Of Texas
Arrests were made at both schools. The LAPD said it would continue patrolling USC's campus into Thursday, while Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said the protestors at UT-Austin belong in jail.

Related Books & Audiobooks