What happens in the past shapes, in part, our perspectives and choices in the present. Over the course of the past two centuries the United states has become the most diverse nation on earth and Chicago, one of its most diverse (and segregated) cities (see the diversity index video and map data). These trends are continuing as immigration and demographic data show that the white population in America is not growing at near the rate of other racial groups. After looking at the data from our readings over the past week...
- What do you think this growing diversity (and segregation) means for the U.S.?
- What does it mean for particular areas like Chicago?
- How do we, as a nation, think about and treat different types of diversity differently?
- What are the strengths and/or weaknesses and what does it mean in terms of American political identity?
Please try to create as much of an online dialogue as possible by commenting on classmates ideas by replying to them. Thanks.
I think that the growing diversity (and segregation) in the U.S. is both a good and bad thing - diversity is always a plus, but the segregation that is happening now and continuing to be established as diversity increases only serves to further the racist and oppressive systems within our government. I am hopeful that one day, Chicago will not be as deeply segregated as it has always been and remains today. I think that as a country, we treat diversity very differently depending on the situation. When immigrants (as the readings for this week remind us) are useful to the country, the country is happy to accept their cheap labor. But when those immigrants start needing benefits, higher pay, and generally better treatment (as anyone would), suddenly diversity is not at all what we want and the immigrants “are taking all of the nation’s jobs.” I am of the opinion that America wants diversity on paper, and prides itself on being the “melting pot” country, but uses those who are diverse by oppressing them as a means by which the scales can be tipped in favor of white, wealthy people. If we are ever to have a strong national identity, then we had better start treating marginalized peoples the way claim that we will in our Constitution.
ReplyDelete-Ally Filicicchia
I agree with Ally’s point that diversity is only seen as beneficial when it helps those in power whether that be those who own corporations, or members of Congress or just generally the 1%. I think this country is built on the idea of it being the “melting pot” as Ally mentions, but really what that means is a sort of integration. I often get stuck on the idea of assimilation/integration because both imply a sort of submission to a certain dominant culture, which in most cases is Eurocentric/White. Recently I’ve come across writing that suggests that integration is not as effective as recreating spaces that have historically treated many unequally. I feel like this more accurately explains how I see growing diversity and what this means for the US. I think that with growing diversity, institutions will have to eventually reflect the population, however I am skeptical about how that may pan out. I think I am most optimistic about the idea of recreating spaces/ institutions to better fit a more diverse population. It may be true that what we have currently in terms of our institutions (education system,affordable housing, health care system, our government in general!) is not as functional under a diversity that will most likely hold past oppressive systems accountable today for their lasting impact. I think that growing diversity will likely make the US come to terms with its history and (hopefully) will result in more accessible, tolerant, and communal reworking/restructuring of systems and institutions. I am not sure what this means for segregated communities in the Chicagoland area, but I do know that the lasting impact of past segregation efforts are still present today. In my hometown of Oak Park, diversity is widely publicized to attract residents of all different backgrounds. However, this diversity that Oak Park prides itself in is deeply rooted in unlawful racial quotas city officials had planned out in the 60s and 70s as a way of redlining certain areas in the town. I think that a lot of the segregation we see today is due to the lasting impact of past injustices; hopefully growing diversity will change the segregation in Chicago, however its long lasting history of segregation makes it difficult for me to make a prediction of what Chicago may look like in the future.
DeleteAlly and Lourdes, I am 100% in agreement with you both. I think the term "melting pot" is problematic because while it promotes diversity on the surface level it can lead to cultural erasure and assimilation to "white" culture. Diversity is powerful and works best when everyone can identify with and live out their culture without any judgment. However, like both Ally and Lourdes said, diversity functions in America mostly as a statistic that serves businesses and institutions the most. I find what Lourdes said about integration super interesting. It makes a lot of sense that recreating spaces to promote diversity, cleaning the slate and starting over, would be more effective in promoting diversity than integration because everyone could start on the same playing field. Creating these spaces would be very impactful and beneficial, but how do we address the existing segregation that exists in our society?
DeleteSegregation was embedded into both the political and environmental landscape of this country. For particular areas of Chicago, housing segregation means substandard housing, further from hospitals, lower-paying jobs, more liquor stores, predatory lending operations, no bike lanes, lower housing appraisals, lower property values, poorly funded schools, then and, as a product of all these factors, gang violence. Racial and class diversity will be the undoing of this trauma, when its impossible to divide who the powers-that-be want to help from who they want to suffer, then we will know justice. Furthermore, diversity is about who has the power to make these decisions, because the people who have been disadvantaged by a system are more knowledgeable about its flaws, its failures, and thus, how to make it better.
ReplyDeleteAs a country, the United States treats gender, ethnic, and racial diversity differently. It all “counts” for the quota but in practice? Not so much. Gender diversity counts, but sexual harassment and abuse isn’t taken seriously in many private spheres. Ethnic diversity counts, but workplaces often don’t recognize minority religious or cultural holidays. Racial diversity counts but when there are issues with police, housing, language, or discrimination, there are pleas to not “play the race card.” That is our weakness. Our strength is our ability to see and recognize what is fair and just, our weakness is our hypocrisy in not taking it seriously, not seeing how our own humanity is tied to how we treat others. Our American Political Identity is ruined by our construction of individual identity against others, not our construction for ideals and values.
I completely agree with you, I think it is important to realize that while diversity is a big step in the right direction, it is not enough. The government, people in power, and society as a whole has to recognize that inclusion and equity need to be implemented in workplaces and communities in order to make the country better. To your point, what I just said is easier said and done especially because of certain negative social and historical constructions that have been engrained in American identity.
DeleteAlissa, like always I agree with you. Diversity is one of the foundations of our country. Although we are very diverse the nation is also very polarized as well. In order for issues like sexual harassment, racial discrimination and such we need to educate our youth. There needs to be more coverage on the news regarding the issues going on within our country and not so much international affairs. The ignorance in America needs to be brought down to a far lesser percentage than it is now and this can done through the education system and media outlets.
DeleteThe growing in diversity is a positive outcome, at least I think so. For many years, and currently, minorities are being under represented and not valued enough. The only problem is segregation, I hope that with more of a growing diversity it can bring people together rather than separating and creating their own communities like in Chicago. Going off of that, I feel like Chicago will only increase it’s communities in terms of their race or ethnicity. Perhaps it will stop gentrification in communities like Humbolt Park and Pilsen. As a nation, people with different cultural backgrounds are treated differently. There is the term of xenophobia that I feel like a lot of areas in the States is cultivated since all they know of is their white neighbors, white schools, etc. People treat these diverse groups as if they are less educated or if they lack any skills just because they don’t look like the dominant culture. The strengths of a growing diversity is perhaps more rights for the under represented, giving them a better chance to have a voice or even creating stronger communities. For weaknesses, I don’t think there are any. Everyone should be given the same opportunities and if we want to pursue equality then that is what it’s going to have to take.
ReplyDeleteI personally think that growing diversity in the U.S is a great thing; it allows for a more expansive view of cultures and traditions, it helps grow the economy, and increases the chance for representation of minorities in many sectors of society. However, as discussions in class and readings outside of class have shown, not everyone sees immigration as positive. Negative thoughts and feelings towards immigrants can lead add to the long-existing presence of segregation within this country. A lot of people leave their home countries to find a better life in America, but when they come here they oftentimes end up having to continue to face challenges such as discrimination and segregation. This is why, in my opinion, the government should fight for policies and laws that help immigrants have a fairer experience living here. Segregation can be found in many communities across America but cities like Chicago tend to have more visible effects of it; one of the reasons this may be is because immigrants tend to move to large and urban areas so there is a higher percentage and concentration of immigrants and minorities. While there are many detrimental effects that segregation can cause, I think one that is very evident today is the general sense of mistrust and inequality. People in high positions of power do not trust immigrants, immigrants and people of color cannot trust police enforcement, and everyday citizens do not trust each other simply because of different nations of origin or skin tone. I think this plays a big part into the serious inequality in the U.S. The general consensus is that American citizens typically are more accepting of legal immigration compared to “illegal” immigration, which is think I think is unfair because the reasons someone comes here “illegally” are usually ignored, even though there are probably logical and understandable reasons behind their actions. A strength is that diversity can bring a lot to the table, but a weakness is that a large portion of society sees more harm than good in immigrants.
ReplyDeleteBuilding off of what many others have said on the topic: Diversity is wonderful, but the segregation that can accompany diversity is deeply entrenched in our society and is something that we have to acknowledge to reap the benefits of diversity. Diverse communities, workplaces, schools, et. are great ways of counteracting systemic issues that are prevalent in the United States. I think a lot of people have brought up the idea in class that being in a homogenous community growing up can really shape how you view the world when you eventually become an independent citizen. If communities are diverse but segregated when it comes to housing, education, etc. people in these communities are more likely to continue to exist within their racial or ethnic groups regardless of what is occurring in other areas of their city or state. I also think this is why generalizations of cities, states, etc. on the basis of race, ethnicity, or general types of people can be a big issue because in the extremely diverse USA, there is a WHOLE lot of segregation. I lived in 5 states
ReplyDeletein various parts of the country- but mostly west coast states- before I came to DePaul which has made it very interesting to see how different cities exist in the context of their own diversity. There is diversity and segregation everywhere in the country, but sometimes this is difficult to see or understand from an outside perspective. Chicago is a great example of a city that may seem a certain way to tourists based off of the city's "marketing" (for lack of a better word), and seems completely different to the people that live in various neighborhoods of the city.
I think you raise an incredibly useful point that diversity is wonderful but the segregation that goes along with it cannot be ignored. Diversity cannot serve its positive purpose in society without people actually experiencing and interacting with it.
DeleteThe growing diversity, as I see it, is a positive sign for the United States. As we accumulate a population of varied backgrounds and experiences, we will ultimately face more challenges toward unity but we also gain invaluable perspectives. In this sense, diversity can be seen as a deterrent and an aid in moving our nation forward. Our goal for diversity as it stands should be understanding and acceptance to become a more truly representative democracy. As a nation, we think about and treat diversity differently depending on how it affects us. I don’t think many would disagree that more voices in discourse are an inherently bad thing, however, some perceive it as an infringement on their voice and thus respond negatively to it. This can be seen in some people’s vehement hatred for immigrants “stealing their jobs,” even when this might not be the case. Those with the most power and privilege in the U.S. are more reluctant to share social, economic, and political power with the growing, diverse minority. Particular areas of growing diversity face the most challenge in adapting to the changing face of their city and of American identity as a whole. Places like Chicago need to learn to promote diversity and integration to move the city forward, because diversity means nothing if it is sheltered, hidden, or tucked away. Rather, when diversity is paired with heightened segregation, it can actually feed into the historic and social oppression of those “diverse” groups.
ReplyDeleteSarah, I completely agree with your point that as a nation, people think about and treat diversity differently depending on how it affects them. For example, when I was in elementary school and was in the bilingual program at school from kindergarten to third grade and transferred to classes with all the other kids in English in fourth grade, I was teased for speaking Spanish with my friends by English-speaking kids. When I got to high school, however, some of the same kids who made fun of me for being different were the same ones who were asking me for help in Spanish class. In other words, when my diversity didn’t benefit these kids, I was seen as different and as an outsider, but in Spanish class when my diversity did benefit them, I was seen as an asset. Moreover, I think that some strengths that come with diversity, as my classmates found out, are that being able to communicate in different languages is a talent and ability that is needed in order to compete in a globalized world. One weakness that I believe comes with diversity is that different groups of people do not know how to coexist with others and this is when discrimination and segregation starts to take place. In terms of American political identity, I think that the strengths and weaknesses of diversity can either break us or shape us and it is up to our generation and our country’s leaders to pursue policies that embrace diversity and deal with the challenges it might bring.
DeleteI think your point about facing challenges towards unity with a more diverse population is very interesting. In this class, we have continuously talked about an "American identity." If that idea no longer exists, we will just be a nation made up of people without anything holding us together against the issues we may face. Diversity needs to have a new definiton, like you stated, understanding and accepting others so we can truly be a represenative democracy. We need every voice to be heard, and those that believe, as you said, immigrants are stealing their jobs or people need to speak english just because they are in america are completly missing the point. Chicago itself has one of the most diverse populations, yet each neighborhood is extremely segregated. This further divides us in politics and economics, as we are unable to come together for the betterment of the community as a whole.
DeleteAs a nation, diversity has almost always been a part of the American identity. However, for most of America’s history, growing diversity has not been accepted without resistance and it has often led to social and economic conflict. Chicago, though it is often thought of as one of the more progressive cities of the U.S, is indeed one of the most segregated cities in the country. For decades, the Chicago Housing Authority instituted De jure segregation, pushing African American families out of white neighborhoods and often away from the central districts of the city. The effects of these practices are still extremely prevalent in the city and across the country. With that said, while diversity is thought of by many as a central aspect of the American identity, it could be said that resistance to diversity is just as strong a characteristic of our history. With that in mind, although we would like to think that increasing diversity would be viewed as a positive by most, it is important not to overlook the fact that it may very well be perceived as a threat to the American identity by others. Diversity absolutely enriches American culture. It allows for unique and diverse interactions between people of different backgrounds, for a more wholistic perception of the world and for a variety of skills and talents which help the country to progress. But it also threatens the idea of a unified American culture, something many Americans care deeply about.
ReplyDeleteI fully agree with your opinion on diversity and the response that America has to it. In regards to the De jure segregation, I wasn't aware of this peticular event but I can't say I was surprised when I read it
DeleteElise, I really liked that you brought up the fact that segregation can exist, even in the most diverse or progressive of cities. I'm from outside of Milwaukee and I know that it's another one of the most segregated cities in the U.S. I agree with you that it's important for people to realize that segregation is still in effect, even though we're supposed to have laws to prevent
DeleteI think the nation’s growing diversity is without a doubt a positive change for our country. We as a nation owe a great debt to marginalized voices and the best that we can do is listen to their perspectives and use them to understand how we move forward both politically and socially.
ReplyDeleteIndeed, while diversity does bring more to enrich the definition of what it means to be an American, it’s not enough. In order to achieve full equity for these diverse groups, the government fundamentally needs to be more proactive in ensuring that this growing diverse population are guaranteed their rights, especially in the political age that we’re living in. We see this in Chicago with the showdown between the teachers strike and nationwide with the ideological battles in the Democratic Party (vis a vis “The Squad” vs. establishment Democrats). What growing diversity means for the US is that there is going to be a new political reckoning on the horizon where we begin to amplify marginalized voices previously unheard.
However, with diversity comes adversity. While I think we should appreciate diverse voices, we also need to protect these voices from those who think diversity is a threat to American identity. There are many assimilationists who genuinely see this growing diversity as a personal threat to their livelihood and the nationalist principles of American identity. We have to be mindful of these dangers and ensure the safety of this progressively growing population.
The growing diversity (and segregation) in the U.S. means changing the way the U.S deals with diversity. Whether that change is positive or negative, America will have to learn to adapt to the changing demographics. From what I see today, the U.S handles diversity negatively, and one example is the institutionalized segregation we see within our most diverse cities. Growing diversity and growing awareness of how we deal with the issue deeply affects places like Chicago, where we have high diversity and deep segregation. As a nation, I’d like to believe that we celebrate and promote diversity as a positive attribute to our society. I believe diversity has countless benefits, and we would not be where we are today without the immersion of cultures and diversity. However, the nation does not treat diversity the same way it talks about it. Through segregation and unfair treatment of immigrants (job discrimination, education disparities, and lack of public assistance), we can see the divide. I am optimistic that this gap between talk and action will close. By starting up the conversation and recognizing the apparent mishandling of growing American diversity, we can, as a nation, create change.
ReplyDeleteI agree that diversity in the United States is a win for the country and something we should be proud of. The segregation this nation still faces is deeply embedded in many neighborhoods and sadly are ignored as they have become so deeply rooted in our society.
DeleteThe growing diversity in the United States for me means that the country is living up to its standard. The fact that the country is becoming a melting pot is the American culture. We are one of the few countries in the world to have a plethora of cultures and races in one country. However, segregation does ensue as a result which, as we saw what happened to African-Americans, will always be America's most haunting humiliating regret. Segregation is not forward but a back step for Americans. I was active during the 2019 mayoral election and I saw segregation first hand. Most debates occurred in the South Side such as Garfield Park and some occurred in Jefferson Park and Boystown. Seeing the drastic changes in housing and neighborhood development was shocking and appalling first hand. The fact that the United States is diverse causes several cases of political identity. There are those who champion diversity and call it a success for the nation while others attempt to limit it while the extreme others (supremacists) call for a one race majority. The fact that despite setbacks such as harsh immigration laws and hate, the United States will become a minority majority within the next decades which is a victory for us because American is a land of diversity and is unique because of it.
ReplyDeleteGrowing diversity is ultimately a great thing for the United States. Economically, it brings more opportunities to the country and it allows for economic growth. Diversity means the incorporation of more cultures, and being around more ideas and different ways of life. It allows for people to think in a more global perspective, and I think it makes people more accepting and open-minded. However, I think there is a double-edged sword to increasing diversity. There will always be a portion of the population that fears the “other” and wants to preserve the “old way of life”. As diversity increases, so do the fears of people who view them as a threat. It builds society, but it simultaneously polarizes it. Chicago is an interesting place for diversity. Our population is roughly evenly split between whites, blacks, and latinos. Despite this, Chicago is the most segregated large city in America, and it continues to become more segregated. Diversity hasn’t strengthened us here. Segregation in Chicago is tied to many other issues, like shifts in the economy, housing, education, or resources. These are issues that need attention, and ones that could be fixed if the time and effort were put in. This just takes me back to political beliefs, but systems need to be reshaped to work for everyone. Maybe if people were paid more, if we invested in kids’ education, or just gave people the resources they needed to live, we could fully see the effects of living in a diverse society. Maybe diversity and the “American identity” would go hand-in-hand.
ReplyDeleteHi Jen,
DeleteI agree with you. Economical growth will be a huge factor with the growing diversity which further leads others to be open to different cultures, over the typical "American" lifestyle. But like you said, there's still a group that is against being accepting of other cultures and fear change.
I think the growing diversity (and segregation) can be looked at as both a bad and good thing. The growing diversity in the United States and in Imigration helps the economy grow as mentioned in class Tuesday. On the other hand the segregation within the US would be the downside to this. Historically segregation has been embedded within the American political system, as well as society as a whole. Segregation specifically in Chicago were majority of our northern Chicago neighborhoods have been gentrified or in the process of being gentrified. Leaves the people who historically are usually lower or middle class minorities in financial crisis because they can no longer afford taxes and such. This then leads them to lower income neighborhoods where jobs and the school system are poor. As a nation we treat diversity totally opposite then we should. As mentioned in class a lot of the news outlets treat diversity as a threat to our nation. Two perfect examples would be the Muslim Ban which luckily did not stick as well as trumps insane idea to build a wall. These two groups of people of “immigrants” have a better chance statistically to open a small business, to contribute to society and supply jobs. There needs to be a change on the outlook of diversity and immigration the bias in news outlets need to be cut down and monitored. We need to stopputting out these stories that leaves our nations citizens with an implicit bias towards certain groups.
ReplyDeleteThe growing diversity in the U.S. is very beneficial since it brings new values into our American Identity. Particularly immigrants who reinforce our democratic principles. Many of the immigrants come from countries where their human rights are being oppressed. Once they arrive in the U.S. they are willing to stand up and accept those values. On the other hand, segregation is very harmful for the American society since alienates certain people from having a political voice. Many people feel ignored and powerless, which contributes to them not willing to participate in our democracy. In Chicago, a city that is very segregated we see a huge contrast between the North and South sides of cities. Many living on the South side do not have the same privilege as people living on the north side of the city. Segregation allows the interest of a few people to be recognized while allowing a group of people to face poverty and poor housing and education. I have seen that people are open to diversity but when it comes to improving the issue of segregation we tend to ignore the matter. For many the issue of segregation has become a norm that has contributed in us not looking for solutions. We must embrace the diversity and culture that exists in the segregated cities and raise their political voice.
ReplyDeleteHi Rudy,
DeleteI agree with you diversity is a good thing for communities as it invites different perspectives to be acknowledged by people who would otherwise never get to hear that groups point of view. As you said immigration is also a great contributer to societies diversification. Immigrants enrich America by bringing their language, food, and traditions that can be celebrated in a free nation. Segregation does alienate people's voices to be heard but when I think about this issue I also consider the preservation of the culture in Chicago communities in places like Pilsen. It has been segregated in the past as a mostly Mexican community where no one that wasn't Mexican would live there. This allowed for the culture to be preserved but now as it is becoming more diverse it is also becoming gentrified. This means that the old families that have been here for generations are being pushed out and the culture is being lost. I think we need to find a way to diversify our neighborhoods in Chicago without leaving anyone behind.
Continuing in line with what many others have said, I believe that growing diversity is a great things. It allows for a more expansive view and reflection of peoples from different cultures. It also allows people to experience the best of these cultures as well. On the topic of segregation with these as well, I think that it will also continue to grow with it to a degree. Segregation however is something that is deeply rooted in American society. Going forward, I think that as the diversity of people living in Chicago and the United States continues to grow, the legacy of segregation will continue to grow with it in some areas, though there will also be other areas that see more and more people integrating and interacting with one an other. The last lecture that spoke about the rise in interracial marriages is something that comes to mind for this. There is also a fact to consider that sometimes new immigrants might seek out these ethnic neighborhoods because it helps them better adjust to life in a new country, while also still having many of the familiarities of home as well.
ReplyDelete-Aditya Alapati
I believe that diversity makes any group stronger; in contrast, segregation clearly makes any group weaker. One of the reasons why I love Chicago so much is because of how diverse it is - something I didn’t experience very much in my hometown. Growing diversity in itself suggests progression amongst the US, but when segregation is thrown into the mix, it defeats the purpose of diversity and ultimately hinders democracy. Democracy in itself is to represent the people, that of which it does not do when segregation occurs, and with growing democracy, it will only make it more difficult for a group to be equally represented. Diversity can sound like a great plan on paper - and while it can be, the reality is that some folks are still discriminated against; this likewise defeats the point of having a wide-range group of individuals with different backgrounds, experiences, etc. I believe that there are endless strengths in this matter, but in terms of weaknesses, some individuals have a harder time understanding how to be compatible with others who are distinctly different from themselves. Part of America’s political identity is supposedly that it is a diverse “melting pot.” Immigrants from around the world flee to the US to achieve the concept of the “American Dream.” The US political identity to the rest of the world has absolutely changed overtime in both positive and negative manners, but overall, I can attest to the fact that weaknesses of the US as a country regarding issues of segregation and diversity are only harming American identity as we are slowly but surely hindering its democracy.
ReplyDeleteJane Pallos
DeleteThis growing diversity in the United States only represents the growing trend of globalization and immigration. Because there are more people coming to the United States there are going to be more diverse populations. In addition to this, there are more mixed couples, which creates even more different ethnicities and communities rather than just divided along traditional ethnic lines. This leads to a more diverse country, which is a benefit in my opinion. However, on the other hand, this also leads to more segregation as well. I think one hand, segregation is to be expected. Many cultures prefer to be in areas with other members of their culture, while others have been forcibly grouped together. However I don’t think the rates of segregation are all that surprising, considering the history of the United States. Going back in time to look at the treatment of groups like the former slaves, Native Americans, and so on. I think there have been many structural institutions put into place to maintain levels of segregation and the only way to change this would be an entire system overhaul. In a city like Chicago, the segregation of neighborhoods is very evident and historic. In the 20th century, black individuals were locked out of certain neighborhoods because no one would sell to them or let them live certain places, which has created a very segregated city. Although people of all races and ethnicities are seen across the city, living segregation still remains evident. I am from Kansas City which is a very segregated city as well, which I wasn’t aware of until later in high school, but looking back on it, it was very obvious. There were two black students who were in my grade in elementary school. Out of about sixty. I’m sure the same is true for many people and schools across the country, because segregation has been a part of our history for so long. This is why I think systemic reform is the best strategy for creating true equality, because without that, we will stay in the same cycle.
ReplyDeleteThere are positives and negatives to the idea of a more diverse society within the United States. Having a more diverse society allows us to be a more educated, open, and culturally competent society. Having exposure to a variety of cultures gives us the ability to limit some of the biases and ignorance that comes with a lack of exposure to these societies. On the other hand, having this level of diversity requires major changes to the status quo. The country must make major changes to cultural norms, standard procedures, etc. This is not a bad thing, but it is a major adjustment that must be made to adjust to these changes. Within the city of Chicago, the diversity has similar issues. Chicago is a great example of America’s salad bowl. A hub for immigrants, a place where immigrants feel safe and want to live. Within the same breathe, certain neighborhoods are not diverse as many groups of people with similar demographics live in the same area. This can be nice to see glimpses of these cultures in an area. Devon and Little Italy are great examples of this but it defeats the purpose of a diverse society. This is segregation, and having these areas makes it easier to “discriminate” against certain groups. It becomes a concerning opportunity to passively endure resources away from certain groups. There are several issues to use as a lens to look at this. There is a stark difference in education and school conditions on the wealthier “white” areas of the city and the more minority communities. Law enforcement and how it is deployed is another way to look at this. While it could be argued that different enforcement procedures are used to prevent crime, it is still done to different demographic groups. The diversity of the United States attributes to a changing political identity in the nation. Having a more diverse nation will give pathways to two diverse ideologies. Those who are willing to adapt for the changing demographics and welcome the diversity of the nation and those who push back against it. We see both of the ideologies popping up on both sides of the political aisle. Soon, one of these will take precedent and the nation will follow but I think the nation is still deciding which they wish to pursue.
ReplyDeleteI consider the growing diversity that America is currently experiencing to be extremely positive. However, I maintain that the segregation aspect of it isn’t. The growth of diversity generally means the growth of representation. Today, America is as diverse as it has ever been, I wouldn’t say that Congress is a great representation of that, but it’s far better than it has been in the past. Better representation comes with a more considerate policy and awareness around the concerns of people with diverse backgrounds. The downfall of growing diversity is inevitable segregation. I believe segregation to be the aftermath of rejected diversity. Minorities are much more comfortable within their own communities due to the political climate and social constructs in place. America is generally more inclusive of immigrants with backgrounds that benefit them. An immigrant from Europe with high marks and superior-tech jobs waiting for them is far more admirable than an immigrant from Latin America looking to commence life with a low paying job. I believe that once this bump is leveled out there could be the hope of a more inclusive accepting America. Although, I also think a substantial part of expecting change would be credited to the time and growth of future generations.
ReplyDeleteI think that growing diversity and segregation in the U.S., and particularly in places like Chicago, will perpetuate a problem of division, tribalism, and violence. I think that diversity is a wonderful thing and I know that it is beneficial for all aspects of our country. However, increased segregation causes an increased sense of tribalism. Particularly, as the segregated groups continue to grow, each one feels more threatened. Additionally, segregation is not the same as “culture communities”, in which people seek out to live with people of the same racial and/or ethnic background. Segregation is forced by systematic boundaries, most commonly income inequality. This increased segregation and the growth of each division in American culture, combined with a lack of resources, will increase violence, particularly in places such as Chicago. As previously mentioned, I think that diversity is very important and complicates the American identity in a way that tears down boundaries that are long overdue to be torn down. Nonetheless, the increasing segregation is making it more complicated for Americans to enjoy the benefits of increased diversity.
ReplyDeleteI think this growing diversity has a lot to do with immigration obviously. I think the more diverse, the better the U.S. becomes. People coming from other countries have a lot to offer and with their experiences, they can be applied usefully to social and economical scenarios the U.S. faces. For particular areas like Chicago, that means our population will be increasing, along with demographic changes in the neighborhoods and suburbs. As a nation, I think we typically treat types of diversity differently based on our political agendas. While many are welcoming of immigrants and different changes or influnces on the U.S., some will always hold that grudge that these people are not "true" Americans. The strengths are the advances we get from these intellectual immigrants as they benefit our society, a possible weakness may be that this growing population will be too much and we might become overpopulated in some areas with not enough resources-although I am not so strong that can happen since the U.S. has so much money, they can avoid that.
ReplyDeleteI think it's very established fact that segregation is a huge issue that accompanies increasing diversity. I totally agree with that, but I think there's an even broader issue in our country when it comes to diversity: the lack of inclusion. I think inclusion, or the active acceptance of diversity, is what is needed to make diversity a complete strength for the country. I think inclusion in the U.S. is not only eliminating segregation, but also changing people's negative attitudes and practices towards minorities. Change needs to happen not only with our institutions, but also within the people. Overall, I think that inclusion would lead to a more holistic acceptance of diversity.
ReplyDeleteI think that racial economic inequality is one of the biggest driver of segregation. If all racial, ethnic, and gender minorities had the resources and capital, gentrification would not be a thing, and neither would the idea that someone “has” to live somewhere because of their economic situation.
ReplyDeleteI do not see segregation as completely negative. Of course de facto segregation and the Jim Crow laws that divided white and black americans was wrong and evil, but I think that segregation in the sense of people with a shared trait living together in a small community of others with that shared trait can be beneficial to the larger community because it allows those people of that community to come together in a way they would not be able to if they were spread evenly throughout the city. For example: Chinatown, Little Italy, and the Ukrainian Village all provide (or used to provide before the ethnic population dispersed) a community where people of a common culture could come together and share their culture with others visiting the community. Boystown and Andersonville are other examples of neighborhoods of people that belong to the LGBTQ community. These are neighborhoods where people choose to live because of the commonality they share with the rest of the community. While I obviously think diversity is great, I think for the end goal to be a city of evenly distributed ethnic, racial and sexual minorities is a mistake. Additionally, i think that many white people (Trump supporters in GENERAL) are afraid of white people becoming a minority in America because they themselves have treated minorities like dog shit ever since this god forsaken country was founded.
I think that the growth in diversity is a positive thing. This brings in other points of view on culture and tradition. It helps improve the economy and built the city to become a city of everyone. However, some others might disagree with me about the growth in diversity (and segregation) and how it could affect the way the U.S. deals with it. Some reason why because diversity is one of the main foundations that form this country, however, there are exceptions and why I also agree with some. This country has all different types of races, cultures, traditions that immigrated from all over the world. And this more this is a positive thing but others might view and take immigration the wrong way or might not agree with me. An example would be Chicago because this city seems to have all types of people (immigrants or not ), problems (general issue), and major actions in society. My point overall is, can’t blame diversity for all the causes that may or could have affected you because, without different types of diversity and people, many of the things we have today wouldn’t be here. Whether you agree with me or disagree, thats my opinion and you can’t change my view.
ReplyDeleteAseal Ahmed
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