Gentrification is defined as the transformation of a neighbourhood from low value into high value. A key example is the Harlem district in New York City. Its rich cultural history stems from the Harlem Renaissance and famous black artists. Yet, the neighbourhood is fast changing: for better or for worse?

IThe gentrification process

1 Urban transformation

Gentrification is a highly contested urban process as it results in displacing low-income families who can no longer afford to live there because of the increased value of the neighbourhood, creating home insecurity.

In addition, the process of gentrification affects people of colour at a greater scale. As newcomers arrive, most of the time college-educated, middle-class white people, rent control disappears and turn-over raises.

2 Urban improvement?

In many cases of gentrification, cities saw their crime rate plummet. Indeed, when a neighbourhood is gentrified it disrupts violent social networks and scatters criminals to the point of eliminating crime in the area.

Along with the arrival of college-educated middle-class people in poor areas, gentrified neighbourhoods’ landscape is modified: buildings are fixed up, bars become yoga studios and coffee shops, which helps people feel safer. People value changes in the amenities and facilities, the visible improvement of buildings and cleanliness of an area.

Big brands are also more likely to implant their shops in areas with a safer environment, replacing small independent businesses with big brand names.

IIThe case of Harlem

1 A cultural displacement

More than a simple low-income neighbourhood, Harlem is considered as the breeding ground for African American culture. A typical example of gentrification in Harlem lies in the rezoning of 125th street, which represents a troubling example of the cultural erosion and displacement in Harlem.

Traditionally composed of low-rise buildings, hair salons and soul-food restaurants, 125th street might turn into an extension of Upper East Side Manhattan with high rise buildings, condos, bookstores and art galleries.

Many historical landmarks have been destroyed in this process, such as 22 West, a restaurant that was often visited by Malcolm X and black jazz musicians. 22 West, along with other iconic places have been forced to close down their businesses because of the increased rent.

2 Harlem fights back

Most Harlemites oppose these changes that affect the cultural and historical area. Despite the economic success of these changes (reduced unemployment, increased income, improvements in safety and amenities), studies show that many African American-owned businesses will close down, workers will be displaced, families will endure home insecurity due to rent increase.

While recognising the benefits of the neighbourhood’s changes, making Harlem a safer place to live, the process has not tackled key issues such as funding public school districts, helping local businesses, and maintaining places of worship alive.