Planned residential segregation

1992
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Planned residential segregation refers to the intentional policy or practice of separating people of different races, ethnicities, or socioeconomic statuses into specific residential areas or neighborhoods. This can be achieved through various means, such as zoning ordinances, housing policies, or discriminatory practices by real estate agents or landlords.

Historically, planned residential segregation has been used as a tool to enforce racial or socioeconomic inequality, often disproportionately impacting minority or marginalized communities. For example, in the United States, the practice of redlining during the 20th century systematically denied mortgage loans or insurance to African American communities, effectively segregating them into economically disadvantaged neighborhoods.

Planned residential segregation can have long-lasting negative consequences for individuals and communities. It can limit access to quality education, healthcare, and job opportunities for those living in segregated areas. It can also perpetuate cycles of poverty and contribute to social and economic disparities among different racial or ethnic groups.

Efforts to address and undo planned residential segregation have included the implementation of fair housing laws, affirmative action policies, and community redevelopment initiatives aimed at creating more inclusive and diverse neighborhoods. However, achieving true integration and mitigating the effects of planned segregation remains an ongoing challenge in many societies.

Further reading

Hendler P. (1992) "Living in Apartheid's shadow Residential planning for Africans in the PWV region 1970 1990", Urban Forum, 3(2), pp. 39-80. . DOI: 10.1007/BF03036751