Ep. 11: Gentrification

This week, Hear Her host Cartier Georgette talks with Sylvia about gentrification and its iterations in Atlanta, and which communities it affects the most. Some argue the changes gentrification brings are positive, such as bringing jobs, raising home equity, and making Atlanta a "hot spot" for younger generations. Critics argue it largely and disproportionately affects lower-income Black and brown communities in the city, creating a large divide between class and race. Atlanta is tied with Baltimore at 22% for the highest rates of gentrification and is the fourth-fastest gentrifying city in the U.S. Atlanta also has one of the highest pay gaps in America, with investors from California and Texas coming to the city to build projects like Echo West, Quarry Yards, Centennial Yards, and more. Meanwhile, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms has promised the city affordable housing on the campaign trail and throughout her administration. Yet, people—particularly Black families—are regularly displaced and pushed further out of the city. Listen in to learn more about what's happening in Atlanta and across the country, as well as where you can learn more about your Neighborhood Planning Unit!