Something that was most surprising about “How to Kill a City” was how much and how well the book redefined gentrification for me. Before reading the book, whenever I thought about the term, I would think about the growth and development in the gentrified areas. The focus always seems to be on the new technology, buildings, and activities that replace the older and historic ones, not on the major disinvestment in communities of color that have lived in the area for years. The author brought up examples of police not showing up after someone calls 911 and waste removal services not collecting trash from neighborhoods, which are heinous acts against communities that have been simply trying to stay afloat in a city that was not built to support them. I think that the first portrayal of gentrification that I understood (based on just what gentrification was investing in and not on who they were taking away from) was a violent one- one that furthers the issue and takes the blame away from racist and anti-black politicians and greedy corporate leaders.
Another thing that stood out to me was how the author makes the city of Detroit to be incredibly disengaged from any revitalization and gentrification efforts. Due to the city’s bankruptcy, corporations and bigger funders have strong control- and Detroit goes where the money does. A city where the local government does not keep the needs of its residents in mind is doomed for turmoil, and I have definitely witnessed that here.
One unintended conclusion I came to after reading the book is that there are groups and individuals doing brilliant work in Detroit who should be supported and celebrated. Although the title insinuates that it is possible for the city to be “killed,” gentrified beyond repair or resolution, the city is still full of residents who care about it deeply and have fond memories in every single neighborhood here. Detroit is not just its booming 7.2 area in the greater downtown area, it is every Black community, every effort to heal after the centuries of systemic racism that underlines everything, and all of the 132 other square miles that hold a rich history and culture.
Hi Maggie! I completely agree with you on how the book redefined gentrification by highlighting the major disinvestment in communities of color, rather than just focusing on the superficial growth and development. The book’s examples of neglected services and disengagement from revitalization efforts in Detroit were truly eye-opening. It’s essential to support and celebrate the groups and individuals working to make a positive difference in the city, and remember that Detroit’s true essence lies in its diverse neighborhoods, rich history, and resilient residents.
Maggie, *snaps* to this post. You bring up three great points (two of which, I also kind of brought up in my post haha). Your first point about gentrification being defined in a new light is really interesting. I didn’t really realize it while reading, but I have to agree with you on the fact that many discussions about gentrification seem to focus on only one-half of the effects of the gentrification – the new developments and residents – and they forget about the effect on the people that were pushed out or are struggling to keep up with the change in their neighborhood. At least, that has been my experience with the term gentrification. It is so important to keep this in mind. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the book!