Why Avondale and what Now?

Download or read book Why Avondale and what Now? written by Elana Beth Tenner and published by . This book was released on 2018 with total page 88 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Avondale, a culturally and ethnically diverse area in Chicago with a rich history, has recently begin to feel the effects of the gentrification of its neighbor, Logan Square. Different groups and industries have moved up and down Milwaukee Avenue, and that is no different for the local art community in Chicago as well. Avondale currently faces the threat of change and displacement as it is located directly next to Logan Square, a neighborhood that has gone through almost a complete transformation. This means less affordable housing for lower-income families and individuals. It also means businesses, some of who have been open for several generations, would have to close due to rising and unaffordable rent. There are already established arts organizations and spaces in the community, some with a longer history than others, however if they do not work together to address the issues in their community, especially with the possibility of more development and economic inflation for rents, gentrification will be inevitable, increasing the risk of displacement and loss of culture. In an article from 2004, there was already skepticism about what would become of the culture in Avondale. "With two-thirds of the area's Polish population living in the suburbs and those suburbs rapidly becoming main entry points for new immigrants, neighborhoods like Avondale Polish Village may soon become a thing of the past." (Eng, Monica. Chicago Tribune;) This not only speaks of the Polish community, but the many other ethnic groups residing in Avondale, such as the Mexican and Puerto Rican communities. While the threats to Avondale's artistic and cultural history and future might be at best slowed, the displacement and the disappearance of those who are currently still there can and should be fought. This includes both the residents of the community as well as the businesses and organizations. How can new artists and spaces moving into these communities help the currently existing organizations, businesses and residents work together to prevent the negative effects on community of such as such as displacement due to rising residential and retail rent prices?