Undesign the Redline Explores the Racist Housing Policies that Shaped Upper Northwest

The "Undesign the Redline" exhibit at the Cleveland Park Library explores the legacy of racial segregation in Washington, D. C. , specifically in Ward 3. It examines policies that allowed for the displacement of nearly 400 Black families in the 1930s due to eminent domain, significantly altering the area’s demographic landscape. Curators aim to spark discussions on how to dismantle these historical injustices.

Bill Jensen, one of the curators, emphasized the importance of post-tour discussions in processing the content. The exhibit, organized by a coalition of local faith communities, customizes its narrative to reflect the unique stories of housing discrimination in D. C. It also links historical injustices to current housing equity initiatives in the city. The interactive format of the exhibit encourages community engagement and education on racial issues.

This initiative represents a significant step towards addressing the complex legacy of housing policies in D. C.