It was interesting to see the similarities in the views America had of African Americans throughout the years. The Tom Angotti text starts off with a quote by Frederick Douglas that explains how during the 1800’s Black slaves represented the lowliest of conditions among modern laborers. In the Root Shock article, Fullilove explains that in the late 20^th century slum areas were viewed as stains that had to be removed. To a lesser extent, but still true today, she also states that the white community’s knowledge of the ghetto community was based on stereotypes. They judged what they did not know.

Intriguingly, during the first part of the 20^th century, although African Americans were generally not upper class, they had formed communities and accomplished something. There was a sense of culture as arts and institutions began to flourish. More importantly, there was a sense of community – people could depend on each other, laugh with each other, have a sense of pride over who they were as a people. This made me question what constitutes a good neighborhood. Although money will always be an issue, the sense of community that was seen in Roanoke, Virginia is quite different from the individualistic approaches that many urban cities have today.

Instead of helping these blossoming communities flourish, urban renewal kicked its people out of their homes, scattered them, and left them struggling alone. I see history repeating itself with the very controversial gentrification that has been going on in Harlem and the displacement of longtime residents. Once again, people feel that they are losing their culture and their sense of belonging. The Root Shock article also offers a more human look at what the displacement that comes with urban renewal does to communities and individuals.

Although America has made progress in the fight against racial stigma, stereotypes about African Americans living in squalor because they are lazy are still prevalent. When we look at the story of David Jenkins and the people of Roanoke, Virginia, we see that this is not the case. What can we do to tackle the stigma that the poor or homeless are the way they are because of individual shortcomings?

Angotti discusses black rage that occurred during the 1700s because of their “continuing exclusion from parts of the city and constant displacement to the periphery.”
Discussion Question: Is the displacement of African Americans due to urban renewal a type of modern-day exclusion from parts of the city?