The housing market in NYC has become a satire of itself. It is easy to laugh about the absurdities of soaring prices bolstered by the establishment of pretentious businesses, however, these comical aspects can divert attention from the true injustices. The ultra rich who have more money then they know what to do with are playing monopoly with the city. Rather than being attracted to a community for its sought after commodities, the ultra rich are interested only in a secure real estate investment. Meanwhile these unscrupulous investors displace the wealthy yuppies into hipster zones, subsequently the younger, less wealthy hipsters retreat into cheaper neighborhoods, further and further into Brooklyn. The only wealth that trickles down in NYC is for the landlords of these newly desired areas who are now sitting on a goldmine. The residents of these areas then become displaced. Displacement is one of the greatest issues presented by the readings. Where do these people go and what they do?
The answer is not clear. For now, they have their communities torn apart by those with more monetary value. The solution to this crisis is to get the super rich out of the city. They do not contribute anything to the culture of the city. Without regard to their money, they are worthless to the city. The people participating and living in the city are being uprooted by these privileged schlubs who have nothing better to do than throw their money around. To accomplish this, first there must be an empowering of Community Boards to foster the growth of a massive grassroots movement that could unite the diverse communities of active citizens in New York City. With organization the people of New York City will be able to stand up to those who contribute nothing to our city.
