Today we picked up where we left off last Wednesday, and worked in groups to distill the problems we are working on, the roots of those problems, and what can/should be done. We also wove into our analyses the most relevant and resonant concepts from recent readings. Here are some highlights from my notes:
From the Future of Homelessness Group: The problem is a lack of caring- people become dependent on sources/forces that are too controlling and abusive-i.e. invasion of privacy; we need solutions that give power back to communities. For example, Community Land Trust (CLTs) would do this by given communities the opportunity for – transformative community development and a sense of independence.
From the Private Development Group: The problem is uneven growth/development/distribution of $- which leads to lack of opportunities for some and privilege for others. In El Barrio there is a lack of $ and community vibe is really important. When private development occurs, wealthier people move in and further break down the sense of community. What can be done? We need a counter to place-less planning- with tighter regulations, case by case zoning, tax redistribution, better representation in government, access to public space- i.e. crack is whack park is now threatened by highway expansion.
From the Community Gardens Group: Oppression… The city planning commission/community planning boards are not very open to community involvement. As shown in the El Barrio film, people care but have no agency to impact decisions, and people outside the community have the power; CPC is not helping this situation, which silences the residents’ voices (also the CPC is not powerful enough- just advisory.) The gardens being closed down are in poor parts of Harlem and Brooklyn, where these spaces/resources are particularly important. Organizing seems most necessary at this point- Melrose Commons, Nos Quedamos, and Bronx United – are examples- but there is no recognized public policy group that unites them, so alliance organizing might be a good idea.
Great work everyone! Think of these as outlines for your projects- use them to dig more deeply, get more specific, and clarify the links between your issue, research questions, methods, findings, conclusions, and products.
