“The End of Black Harlem”

In class we often discuss the implications of gentrification on neighborhoods of color. However, I realized that many of the readings had a distant, third person perspective of gentrification. Thus far, we have not read any personal accounts of lived experiences of gentrification and displacement. In “The End of Black Harlem,” Michael Henry Adams discusses gentrification in Harlem from a more personal point of view. Adam has lived in Harlem for 30 years and has seen the neighborhood serve as a safe haven for Black immigrants searching for better opportunities.

Over the past decade, Harlem has been attracted many more middle class white residents and tourists. While the neighborhood has received more public funding to build parks and other amenities, it is also beginning to lose its original identity. Historical buildings such as the Renaissance Theater, a significant landmark for Harlem natives has been replaced by newer upscale buildings. The Renaissance was especially important because it was built for the African community in the 1920s, just 60 years post slavery. In many ways, this theatre celebrated black culture and music and simply blackness in general. Moreover, the Renaissance has been an important landmark for the black community because it many notable figures in the community have performed there (Malcom X’s funeral also took place in this hall). When such landmarks that preserve the identity of the neighborhood, are replaced to build new apartments (Note: the rent for such buildings are beyond what many Harlem natives can afford) it is hard for the community to believe that these changes are made for them. Adams discusses that many African Americans believe (rightfully so) that their community is being exploited for wealthier, whiter class.

The African American community has long been victims to displacement and institutionalized racism (i.e. redlining). Adams even explains a personal experience, where a young boy looks over to this friend and remarks “You see, I told you they didn’t plant those trees for us.” So much more can be said about the racial politics of gentrification in Harlem. Harlem is more than just a neighborhood that was once inhabited by the African American community- it served as a safe haven. A space where the post slavery generation could celebrate their identity. Unfortunately, Adams and many other Harlem natives believe the end of Black Harlem is coming too soon.