The Impact of Gentrification on Harlem Gentrification in Harlem has been a huge topic of debate over the past few decades. Harlem is known for its rich cultural history and vibrant community. As years passed by, Harlem has seen significant changes due to an influx of more wealthy residents and new businesses. This transformation has led to many economic developments, such as improved structure and increased property values. However, these changes have been followed by many challenges. Residents who have been living for a long time have started facing displacement, rising living costs, and shifts in the social structure of the community. Local businesses, many of which have been family-owned for generations, have started to struggle amid the …show more content…
When the quality of toys her daughter had differed slightly from the ones the other children on the block, it raised tensions between them and the neighborhood. These visible differences can lead to feelings of inequality when newcomers see a higher standard of living. The connections between the neighborhoods start to fall apart and create divisions. This led to a clash of values between long-time residents and new residents. As these wealthy residents start moving in, conflicts start rising because of the tension. It will make it harder for the people to work together and support each other, which is important in order to maintain a healthy community. Furthermore, leading to increased social tensions and a breakdown of community cohesion. This quote matters as it provides evidence of the changes happening in Harlem due to gentrification. It shows how the influx of wealthier individuals has a big impact on the long-time residents. This quote also highlights the conflicts over community preservation versus modernization, where old traditions are replaced by new traditions. This will raise the attention of the people who have lived there for so long and are used to following the old traditions. Watching these traditions change, tensions between the people are going to rise. Moreover, gentrification has led to an increased cost of living which has negatively impacted Harlem. This means that as new developments and higher-income residents move into the area, the prices for living increase. Many long-time residents find it incredibly difficult to afford to live in their own neighborhood. This increased cost of living doesn’t just affect individuals and families, but also impacts the entire community by pushing out those who have lived there for years. “A marketplace that doesn't take into account or even care about people who can't afford to live like that, and will do everything in its power to discourage these populations from continuing to live