Artist Quote by Cleve Jones
“Since the industrial revolution, cities, and especially the inner cities, were the places for the newly arrived. Voluntary immigrants seeking economic betterment, refugees, the bohemians, the artists - all of those people were crammed into densely populated neighborhoods and tenements. And as people climbed up the economic ladder they moved out, which really accelerated with the "white flight" phenomenon in the '60s and '70s.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Urban Migration and Demographic Shifts, 1990s
Cities historically absorb newcomers—immigrants, refugees, artists—into dense neighborhoods; upward mobility later drives suburban migration, intensifying segregation.
In simple terms: Cities house newcomers, then people move out as they get richer.
Recognize how housing patterns shape social equity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- housing policy
- community planning
- social services
- neighborhood revitalization
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do housing policies affect upward mobility?
- What can cities do to retain diversity?
Assumes all moves are voluntary, ignoring systemic barriers.