March Through The Barrio
On Sat. May 8, 2010, the Save Our Barrios Coalition will organize a march through Barrio Logan to inform the community about the need to unite and stop all “redevelopment plans” until the voice of the community is clearly heard. The “plans” as they exist, have been created with little or no in put from the community. Therefore, the Save Our Barrios Coalition is calling for a moratorium on all redevelopment until a democratic process that guarantees that residents of Barrio Logan have a say in any redevelopment of their community.
Barrio Logan has long been neglected by the city. For more than 60 years, it has suffered numerous forms of “redevelopment”, from the industrial zoning to freeway construction –leading to massive destruction of residential units and force relocation of thousands of families. Moreover, many of the businesses that have been allowed to establish themselves in the area have converted Barrio Logan into one of the most polluted neighborhoods in the city and has led to a high rate of asthma and other health problems, especially among children.
The redevelopment plans as they exist, can be characterized as nothing less than “Gentrification”: a process where poor and working class communities are demolished, residents forced to move out, and the area is replaced with housing and businesses that cater to the middle and upper class. It is a process by which rich corporations and land speculators make millions in profits at the expense of the original residents and city taxpayers.
Gentrification destroys homes, ruins lives, and erases the history and culture of whole communities. We will not let this happen to Barrio Logan!
The “march” will begin at 12:30 PM and proceed through the community of Barrio Logan. Statements from participating organizations will be given at the end of the march.