Dear Phoenix Residents,
I'm writing this letter to diminish any fears or misconceptions you may have of your neighbors in South Phoenix. While doing an intensive study in the South Phoenix area, my class and I have uncovered many myths about the "culture-less criminals" of this area. We have found hard-working, honest Americans, not unlike yourselves. These people work for the same things you do; food, clothing and shelter. They fear crime, gangs and drugs just as you do. The people who live in South Phoenix are the same as you and I. They do not suffer from any "urban illness", they only suffer from the stereotyped images that are forced upon them by the newscasters, journalists, and the citizens of the North , many of whom have never even been to the south side!!
During our course of study, we met with many people in the South Phoenix area. Ron Snodgrass, a police officer in this area, informed us of the declining crime rate in South Phoenix. Most of the crime committed here is by young kids. These types of teenage crime happen all of the time in Northern Phoenix, but it is not considered "crime ridden". There will always be crime. Crime will always be everywhere. Is it fair to always point to South Phoenix as crime central?
"Forms of power/knowledge generally associated with the colonial and postcolonial exploitation of a distant third world are becoming increasingly apparent in the U.S." (Koptiuch). South Phoenix is not a third- world country and thus should not be treated as one. The gentrification issues taking place in South Phoenix are not fair. These residents should be given the same treatment as anyone else. Their "world" consists of many different people coming together to form one community. From the murals on the walls to the famous eateries, South Phoenix is loaded with culture. True, the residents would like a few large scale restaurants in the area. Residents feel they must drive out of the area to find large scale business. Not only is this inconvenient, it makes it impossible to support their local community. Big business doesn't tend to come to this area because it is considered poor. This is unfair, just because people of this area may not make a million a year doesn't mean they shouldn't have the same opportunities that other consumers do.
In conclusion,
I ask that you view our web pages with an open mind. Think of the
people and neighborhoods as cultured. Enjoy the eateries and the
unique shops. Most of all, don't be "afraid" of this neighborhood.
I assure you that it is definitely not what you think it is! I can
attest to that myself! Enjoy this neighborhood while you can!
With new communities opening monthly, in five years it may not be the same!
Sincerely,
Melissa Smith