Extralegal segregation

Date and country of first publication

2014
United States

Definition

Extralegal segregation refers to the practice of segregation that is not officially or legally mandated by the government but is still enforced or observed by societal norms, customs, or individual actions. It occurs when individuals or communities engage in voluntary separation based on race, ethnicity, religion, or other social characteristics, despite there being no explicit laws or policies requiring such discrimination.

An example of extralegal segregation is the practice of "redlining" in the United States during the 20th century. Redlining involved banks and other lending institutions drawing maps and designating certain neighborhoods as high-risk areas for loans based on racial demographics. This resulted in limited access to housing loans and other financial services for minority communities, effectively segregating them from predominantly white neighborhoods.

Another example is the formation of ethnic enclaves in cities where certain immigrant groups or ethnic minorities concentrate in specific neighborhoods. This can occur through self-segregation, as individuals are more comfortable living among people with similar cultural backgrounds, or due to various economic, social, or historical factors.

Extralegal segregation can have significant impacts on access to resources, educational opportunities, healthcare, and other amenities for marginalized communities. While deemed extralegal, such practices can perpetuate social inequalities and reinforce systemic discrimination.

Notes

At its current state, this definition has been generated by a Large Language Model (LLM) so far without review by an independent researcher or a member of the curating team of segregation experts that keep the Segregation Wiki online. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its reliability, completeness and timeliness. Please use this content with caution and verify information as needed. Also, feel free to improve on the definition as you see fit, including the use of references and other informational resources. We value your input in enhancing the quality and accuracy of the definitions of segregation forms collectively offered in the Segregation Wiki ©.

Further reading

Powers J.M. (2014) On separate paths: The Mexican American and African American legal campaigns against school segregation. American Journal of Education, 121(1), 29-55. University of Chicago Press.[1]