Memphis, a large city located on the southwestern side of Tennessee, is known as the home of the Blues, Graceland, and, unfortunately, as a major crime center in the US. The mental images of famous music artists and fevered tourists swarming to see well-known attractions clash with others, of gang violence, broken down buildings, and a meth lab shootout. Extensive images of diversity possible are shown by the fact that an area so greatly connected to revolutions in musical history is as equally seen as a center of theft, murder, and drug trafficking in stereotypical Memphis. Although several forces have stepped in and attempted to control the crime that terrorizes Memphians –and the occasional tourist- these forces still cause devastation …show more content…
Whether the citizens or simply their circumstances are to blame is heavily debated. What is not is the existence of drugs and crime abounding the area and spreading general distrust to anyone who happens across this part of Memphis. Cocaine was introduced to the environment around the 1980 to 1990s, since then drugs and violence have split families and been a source of violence and distrust throughout the neighborhood (Orange). These detrimental influences are further spread by the insinuation that the decline of this neighborhood can be linked to the race of its residents. Even in today’s age of modern times and preached about acceptance, racism still abounds to the levels of rioting and civil warfare over issues that are only worsened by such. Memphis as a whole may be a wonderful city but there are sections where its citizens seem determined to manufacture a hostile and unwelcoming environment which only serves to escalate the pre-existing notions of discrimination and blame. Even more appalling than the current situation is the fact that while efforts are being introduced to quell the crime and injustice present in some communities there are groups actively working against these efforts. Over years of gang and drug business’ flourishing many individuals are profiting from the area’s unfortunate circumstances. As the poor turn to …show more content…
Programs put in place by both private and public institution have created schools closer to neighborhoods like decaying Orange Mound and focused on the redevelopment of such dilapidated, dysfunctional spaces. As cracked walks are replaced with smooth concrete slabs and empty, decrepit buildings are transformed or renovated to form more aesthetically pleasing and functioning homes, the quality of life is increasing. A tall, red brick school being placed in such a place may at first be the reason for groaning and cartoon wished amongst many young children, through regular attendance they may start to see the value of an education. These reconstructive efforts make a difference in Memphis and transform the area to a more livable area, and community. Educating citizens can both empower them to escape the prior mentioned cycles, as well as inspire them to attempt such a feat. The variations of such efforts are very valuable to me personally and to an area’s longevity and popularity as a place of residence. With lowering crime rates and a more educated society advances can progress more quickly, efficiently, and safely. Memphis government and its inhabitants are also looking to improve their lives with the establishment of things like community gardens, where both personal relationships can be made and food can be grown to eliminate some expenses and improve health.