One of the great ironies of our time is that some of the most progressive cities are among the most systemically racist in their housing policies.
Ritchie TorresRead
What does it say about our society that we invest more in a golf course than the homes of Black and brown Americans?
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote criticizes societal priorities that favor luxury recreational spaces over housing for marginalized communities.
Ritchie Torres's quote highlights the troubling disparity in societal values, where significant investments are made in affluent amenities such as golf courses while neglecting the basic needs of housing for Black and brown Americans. This observation prompts a deeper examination of societal priorities and the systemic inequities that influence resource allocation, reflecting a broader critique of how society often prioritizes the interests of the privileged over those of marginalized populations.
Themes
SocietyInvestmentHousingInequalityEquityBlackBrownCommunity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in discussions about urban planning and investment priorities during a city council meeting.
More from Ritchie Torres
All quotes βSimilar quotes
What I think is different today is the lack of political connection between the black middle class and the increasing numbers of black people who are more impoverished than ever before.
Angela DavisRead
My whiteness, economic privilege, able-bodied privilege, family support, and so many other factors shield me from some of the worst possible consequences - often fatal ones - that result from the toxic combination of misogyny, racism, and anti-trans sentiment.
Sarah McbrideRead
Do not presume, well-housed, well-warmed, and well-fed, to criticize the poor
Herman MelvilleRead
We should be uncomfortable with the growing gaps in our society, and we cannot allow ourselves to become desensitized to these injustices.
Ayanna PressleyRead
The default of our society is the reproduction of racial inequality. I mean, that's what it does; that's what it's been doing for hundreds of years.
Robin DiangeloRead
Poverty, the racial divide and social injustice do not impact only those who suffer most visibly. Alleviating poverty and injustice is a responsibility we must never forget or abandon.
Marc MorialRead