In social justice circles, say the word “gentrification” and you get sneers.
Rising values often mean higher taxes which drive lower income neighbors out. And the idea of latte-drinking, Volvo-driving yuppies taking over a community sends shudders down our collective spine.
But there are other view points.
Some think that new grocery stores, restaurants and shops will only ever open with the push that higher-income neighbors can provide. And as a neighborhood’s demand rises, some long-time homeowners are able to sell their house for 2 or 3 times what they paid for it.
And then there are the towns and neighborhoods that have emptied out. A lack of good schools, crime or the allure of somewhere else has made it so that anyone who could afford to has moved out. It’s hard to imagine anyone even wanting to gentrify many of these places.
Gentrification, disinvestment and reinvestment are complicated issues to consider.
That’s why Bread & Roses Community Fund is hosting a town hall meeting next week. Can you join in or, if you are already planning to attend, help get more people there? Click here to sign-up to attend:
“No neighbor left behind” town hall
Tuesday, February 2nd
5:30-8:00 PM
Bright Hope Baptist Church
12th and Cecil B. Moore
Philadelphia, PA 19122
At the town hall, you’ll hear from the experienced leaders of four organizations–working in the city and the suburbs–who have used grassroots organizing tactics to build communities that are liveable, workable, shopable and affordable for all.
Hope to see you there!
-Ray Murphy
director of communications
