Definition: Redlining is a discriminatory practice that puts services (financial and otherwise) out of reach for residents of certain areas based on race or ethnicity. It can be seen in the systematic denial of mortgages, insurance, loans, and other financial services based on location (and that area’s default history) rather than on an individual’s qualifications and creditworthiness. Notably, the policy of redlining is felt the most by predominantly Black and brown racial and ethnic minorities.

Main Challenge

• Read this article from The New York Times (PDF) about the legacy of redlining. 
• Read this article from The New York Times, “The Black Lives Next Door,” which uses San Mateo as an example.

Self-Reflection Questions

• What have you learned from today’s challenge?
• How has redlining impacted you and your family (to your benefit or disadvantage)?