Evicted: Poverty And Profit In The American City Pdf
Introduction
Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City is a book by Matthew Desmond that explores the relationship between poverty, housing, and eviction in the United States. The book is an eye-opener that draws attention to the significant and growing problem of evictions in America.
The Problem of Evictions in America
In America, eviction has become a common occurrence, particularly in low-income communities. According to Desmond, in Milwaukee, approximately 1 in 8 renters face eviction every two years. This has come to be known as the eviction epidemic. Desmond argues that eviction is not only a consequence of poverty but also a cause of it, as it destabilizes families and leads to job loss and further poverty.
The Impact of Eviction on Families
The impact of eviction on families is immense. Families that are evicted are forced to move frequently, which disrupts children's education and leads to emotional instability. Families that are evicted also lose their possessions, which can have significant financial and emotional costs. Moreover, eviction records can make it difficult for families to find new housing, as landlords are often hesitant to rent to anyone who has been evicted.
The Role of Landlords in the Eviction Crisis
Landlords play a crucial role in the eviction crisis. Many landlords in low-income neighborhoods charge exorbitant rents for substandard housing, leaving tenants little choice but to pay or face eviction. Desmond argues that many landlords intentionally target poor tenants who are more likely to fall behind on rent and be evicted, as they can then easily replace them with new tenants.
Solutions to the Eviction Crisis
Desmond proposes several solutions to the eviction crisis. One solution is to increase funding for affordable housing, which would provide low-income families with stable housing and reduce the number of evictions. Another solution is to provide legal representation to tenants facing eviction, as many low-income tenants are unable to afford a lawyer, making them more vulnerable to eviction. Desmond also argues that we need to change the way we view evictions, from an individual failure to a societal problem that requires collective action.
Conclusion
Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City is a powerful and thought-provoking book that sheds light on a significant problem in America. The book raises important questions about the role of poverty, housing, and landlords in the eviction epidemic and proposes solutions that can help reduce the number of evictions in America. By reading this book, we can better understand the eviction crisis and work towards a more just and equitable society.
