Central city segregation

Date and country of first publication

1982
United States

Definition

Central city segregation refers to the social and spatial division of urban areas based on race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and other factors. It typically refers to the concentration of certain racial or ethnic groups in specific neighborhoods or districts within a city, while other groups are concentrated in other areas.

Historically, central city segregation in the United States was primarily enforced through discriminatory housing practices such as redlining, where certain neighborhoods were designated as high-risk for investment or mortgage lending based on racial composition. This led to the exclusion of many minority groups from accessing housing opportunities in desirable urban areas.

The effects of central city segregation are multifaceted and have significant implications for individuals and communities. Segregated neighborhoods often lack access to quality education, healthcare, transportation, and other essential services. Moreover, segregation can perpetuate cycles of poverty and inequality, as concentrated poverty and limited economic opportunities are more prevalent in segregated communities.

Efforts to address central city segregation have taken various forms, including fair housing laws, affordable housing initiatives, and community development programs. However, segregation remains a persistent issue in many cities, with deeply rooted patterns that continue to perpetuate inequality and limit social mobility for disadvantaged groups.

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

FARLEy J.E. (1982) "BLACK MALE UNEMPLOyMENT IN U.S. METROPOLITAN AREAS: THE ROLE OF BLACK CENTRAL CITy SEGREGATION AND JOB DECENTRALIZATION", Journal of Urban Affairs, 4(3), pp. 19-34. . DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-9906.1982.tb00062.x

Farley J.E. (1983) "Metropolitan housing segregation in 1980: The St. Louis Case", Urban Affairs Review, 18(3), pp. 347-359. . DOI: 10.1177/004208168301800304

Fischer M.J. (2008) "Shifting geographies: Examining the role of suburbanization in blacks' declining segregation", Urban Affairs Review, 43(4), pp. 475-496. . DOI: 10.1177/1078087407305499