Statutory residential segregation

2003
south africa

Statutory residential segregation refers to the practice of legally mandating the separation of different racial or ethnic groups into different residential areas. This practice has historically been enforced through laws that restrict where certain groups can live, or through the enforcement of discriminatory housing policies.

The most well-known example of statutory residential segregation is the system of racial segregation enforced in the United States known as Jim Crow laws. These laws were enacted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and aimed to segregate African Americans from white populations in all aspects of life, including housing. Numerous cities had laws explicitly prohibiting people of certain races from living in certain neighborhoods.

Statutory residential segregation has had long-lasting impacts on society, perpetuating racial and economic inequalities. It has resulted in the concentration of poverty and limited access to quality education and resources for marginalized communities. Although many of these laws have since been overturned, the legacy of residential segregation continues to be apparent in many cities and communities.

Further reading

Maharaj B. (2003) "‘Co operation…consultation and consent’: The failure of voluntary residential segregation in durban (1920 1945)", South African Geographical Journal, 85(2), pp. 134-143. . DOI: 10.1080/03736245.2003.9713793