Trader Joe’s not welcome in a predominantly black Oregonian neighborhood? Apparently so. Why?
The Portland African American Leadership Forum (PAALF) says:
- It would “increase the desirability of the neighborhood,” which would, apparently, somehow displace current residents.
- The group “remains opposed to any development in North/Northeast Portland that does not primarily benefit the black community” because bringing jobs and good food doesn’t benefit the black community?
- Bringing Trader Joe’s to the community “reflects the city’s overall track record of implementing policies that serve to uproot, displace and disempower our most vulnerable community members”… WHAT???
Ok, so let’s review. Letting Trader Joe’s move into the community might make more people want to move to the neighborhood… non-black people… because making jobs for the “most vulnerable community members” uproots, displaces, and disempowers them. Is everyone clear on this?
All I can say is, the PAALF is either confused or they’re working hard to keep black communities in a vulnerable, disempowered position. Or maybe it’s just me who’s confused. You decide. Let me hear your thoughts…
You can read more about it here.
Photo Credit Flickr Chris Dlugosz
