Finally, we must call on public officials at local, state and federal levels to address residential segregation through assertive social programs. Models for these already exist, such as the one developed by the Fund for an Open Society in Philadelphia. This plan calls for the creation of neighborhood enterprise zones dedicated to residential integration. It suggests the creation of mortgage subsidies and tax exemptions for homeowners, and recommends that participating localities be made eligible for dedicated funding for new construction and school support. The Fair Share Housing Center in Cherry Hill, NJ works with residents of Mt. Laurel, NJ to develop low-income housing that would allow some of Camden's inner city residents to afford suburban housing.
Segregation is a stubborn problem.
Although some communication practices have been used to circumvent fair housing and integration, others can help. Let's talk frankly about the racial makeup of our neighborhoods. Let's document and publicize what is going on. Let's define segregation as a social harm rather than as an inconvenient byproduct of individual preferences. And let's come up with alternatives for viable communities with quality of life for all.