(ThyBlackMan.com) If you decide to relocate to a new state, or city, there are some things you should consider before making your decision. Of course, it is wise to look at the housing market, job market and school system in the areas you are considering. You might consider the social aspects of said location if you are need something lively, or more on the quiet side. It is also very important to consider the culture of a city. Some cities are a bit more generic while others have a deeply defined culture that is the identity and lifeblood of said location.
It is wrong to expect that culture to change simply because you move to that city. This doesn’t mean you are not important, but that you should be a bit more respectful to the identity of your new location. If you feel the culture is stupid because it’s different or you don’t understand please don’t contribute to gentrification…just leave.
There seems to be an entitlement some people have when moving to a new location that it should conform to who they are individually. This is a part of the problem with urban gentrification. The price of living goes through the roof, and the native of said place is often driven out. The lack of respect is undeniable from pushes for city ordinances, to rude behavior towards native, and there is the dreadful fear that someone just moving in is going to call the cops on someone whose family has lived in the neighborhood for generations.
It better to know what culture you are about to enter and ask yourself is it for you. Would you want a place that is home to your family, by which you are rooted, to treat you like you are the outsider? If the answer is no, why should others lay down for such treatment?
I see this often in my native New Orleans. My city is known for its culture: the music, food, festivals and jovial atmosphere. The culture of the city is very easy to research, or one can visit for one of the many different events going on in the city to get a feel for the environment and its people. It’s not the best place to live if you crave a quiet environment. There is music, 2nd lines and chatter everywhere. Festivals are had all year long, and Mardi Gras is a huge party that last for days. It you think it’s stupid this isn’t the best place for you.
Why should we have to change the very culture of our neighborhoods for newcomers to feel comfortable. Why should the 2nd line parades end because someone new doesn’t understand the culture, and think its stupid? That kind of thinking is beyond me.
Staff Writer; Chelle’ St James
May also connect with this sister via Twitter; ChelleStJames.