Historical November–December 2002 article. Dates, prices, services and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
I have recently read a book called “Place Matters” that deals with economic and racial segregation in American metropolitan areas.
The authors present interesting data and ample historic detail. But, something is missing.
There is integration in some places, both economic and racial. Of course, Skinker DeBaliviere is one of those places here as is Tower Grove South and East, the Shaw, and other city neighborhoods. Bel Nor certainly is that way in the county.
But the authors of “Place Matters” link St. Louis to Detroit and Camden. Since Detroit is my hometown and I have read about Camden, I would say this is a badly formed trio. Given the new housing going up in St. Louis and the health of a number of commercial areas, we are not in Detroit’s dire straits. One of the authors moved to the area last year and joined SLU’s faculty. Maybe his thinking will change now that he is among us. Our type of neighborhood is not a chance occurrence.
It took tremendous work and commitment of neighbors, institutions, and elected officials.
It still takes work. And we all don’t love each and everyone. But, proximity does increase tolerance.
There certainly need to be more studies of diverse neighborhoods.
It is a hopeful happening in the Gateway City.
As I write these thoughts, I am still recovering from the Cardinal loss. No more post-season. Destiny didn’t go far enough.
This year’s team is an exemplar of working together to overcome stark and unexpected adversity. Hopefully, their esprit d’corps can carry over to another season. Wait until next year.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, November–December 2002.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times2002_11.pdf, printed page(s) 2; PDF page(s) 2.
