Atlanta, like any major city in America, looks to progress by bringing in new business, residents, and improving the local environment. Idealistically, improvement would be mean progressive and agreeable changes for everyone in the area. Unfortunately, in the real world certain groups are left behind or purposely hindered from said improvement.
The Central Atlanta Progress Inc. has been in operation since 1941. The group is dedicated to providing services that help maintain and stimulate the Downtown Atlanta area- namely through economic means with the help of investment by businesses in the area. CAP also works in association with the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District, another partnership with public and private sectors to help with the livability of the city.
The organization’s president, A.J. Robinson, “manages the overall strategic functions of the organizations which are designed to make the Downtown Atlanta community more livable, vital and diverse.” (link) (“A.J. Robinson (President, Central Atlanta Progress and the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District,” WNBA.com).
In print that sounds great. Diversity and progression are words we (millennials especially) love to hear. CAP’s initiatives like Trees Atlanta, COPA Inc (to improve the Centennial Park area), and the Downtown Green Source Program. These plans have brought back a good payout for the city- tourism, capital, general environmental improvements.
However, when it comes to the bigger picture who is actually benefiting from the changes CAP and ADID have brought to the Atlanta area? Maybe it is everyone, maybe it is a certain class of people. Whichever the case, the digital environment of CAP presents a slanted idea of “diversity” in the downtown Atlanta area. The environment, especially through digital images, doesn’t fairly represent what one might actually see walking down Peachtree Street.
Out CAP’s executive board of 21 people, 17 are white. The last U.S. census recorded (link) says that 54% of the Atlanta population is African American, 38% are white, and 8% Asian, Hispanic, or other (“Atlanta City Georgia Quick Facts.” Census.gov).. Now does that seem like a proper board to help promote interests of the population?
In the picture to right we see Woodruff Park as shown in a video (link) sponsored by CAP. A picture similar can be found on the front page of their website. The problem with these images is almost similar to false advertising.
If you were to visit the park and walk the length of it you would notice copious amounts of homeless people and a majority of the homeless people being African American. According to the 2015 Homelessness Report (link) distributed by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, 65% of Georgia’s homeless are African American. 500+ homeless persons are found in Fulton County (“2015 Report on Homelessness,” dca.ga.gov).
Said video, “The Real Downtown Atlanta” (link) takes us down Peachtree, all the way to the Sweet Auburn Market, and we see a snip bit of Centennial Olympic park. Real downtown Atlanta is more than white collar business people, but for some reason that is the only kind of person presented to the viewer.
Interestingly enough, almost all of the images that feature the working class are African American people. When African American people are depicted as part of the business class, there will always be one or more white people as well.
The main CAP website also creates binaries through other photos throughout their site. I noted that a majority of the photos depicting Atlantan’s enjoying a night on the town or the activities that Atlanta has to offer are white people. With 62% of Atlanta’s population being non white, these photos may not attest to a real night on the town depending on the area (“Atlanta City Georgia Quick Facts.” Census.gov).
The area’s of Atlanta that have undergone gentrification are depicted in dark blue. This data covers the 2000 census to present day (“Atlanta Gentrification Maps and Data,” governing.com). Interestingly enough those areas fall in line with the areas that CAP have focused on. A rise in area income, house value, and college degrees is never a bad scenario, however a problem does arise in leaving out or pushing out half of a cities population-as previously mentioned.
Clearly there are still African American people in the Atlanta area. Unfortunately, this problem of binary thinking and unfair misrepresentation from the real world to the digital environment is more than just a CAP issue.
According to the 2015 CAP annual report (link) big names in business and in the Atlanta area support the efforts made by CAP. Creative Loafing, UPS, Zipcar, The Fox Theatre, The Tabernacle, the Georgia Institute of Technology, churches, hotel chains, law firms, and construction companies are among the some 172 members. Partners to CAP include the Atlanta Police Foundation, American Institute of Architects- Georgia, and Sustainable Solutions Georgia, LLC among 38 others. Currently their “Be Downtown” campaign is being funded by names like Coca-Cola, the Atlanta Falcons, and Georgia Power.
I looked at each website for the businesses explicitly listed above to see if the same binary trends displayed on CAP’s website were present and voilà!
Not only just a majority of white people in photos show up, but only African American and white people generally can be found. On Coca-Cola’s page about employment and diversity, photos most predominantly feature white males. Ironic, is it not, as diversity is supposed to represent an assortment of different things.
Even the websites that had as many African Americans as white people, there was an alarming amount of no one else! It is almost like an unspoken rule throughout all of the websites that as long as there is at least one African American person in a photo it is diverse. However, as diversity is an assortment of different things as previously stated- more specifically in this case those things being race. Hispanic, Asian, Pacific Islander. If it is on a “race category” for a job application to one of these businesses, why aren’t these people being represented digitally?
The scary part about this when it relates back to Central Atlanta Progress is that members and partners have a definite say in what is happening in the city, where the money is going, and what that means for the people that live here. With the numerous amounts of different kinds of companies CAP works with, it is alarming to find trends so blatant across all their digital environments.
It becomes a kind of network that creates inherent inequalities in the digital realm. These inequalities then support gentrification and leaving out groups in the real world because one visiting the area would not expect to see certain groups anyways.
As of 2016, 88% of adults in America use the internet in America. The internet is practically another world now and the way information is processed through it is impactful. We become programmed by the subliminal, little things in the photos we see become big things.
Livability does not mean push out the people an upper middle class America does not want to see or hide certain groups on digital platforms. These ideas of progress and diversity are severely thwarted with misrepresentation.
I appreciate the thoughtfulness and care with which you approached your subject matter. yee bet
I need to to thank you for this very good read!! I definitely loved every little bit of it. I have you bookmarked to check out new things you post… Zonnepanelen in Antwerpen
Hi, I log on to your new stuff like every week. Your humoristic style is witty, keep it up Spouwmuurisolatie
The web site is lovingly serviced and saved as much as date. So it should be, thanks for sharing this with us. Gevelbekleding
Super site! I am Loving it!! Will return once more, Im taking your food likewise, Thanks. Lucht lucht warmtepompen
I feel very grateful that I read this. It is very helpful and very informative and I really learned a lot from it. Lucht water warmtepompen
It is extremely nice to see the greatest details presented in an easy and understanding manner. Warmtepompboilers
With so many books and articles coming up to give gateway to make-money-online field and confusing reader even more on the actual way of earning money, Crepi facade
This is a great inspiring article.I am pretty much pleased with your good work.You put really very helpful information… Spouwmuur isoleren
I finally found great post here.I will get back here. I just added your blog to my bookmark sites. thanks.Quality posts is the crucial to invite the visitors to visit the web page, that’s what this web page is providing. Gevelrenovatie
I see the greatest contents on your blog and I extremely love reading them. Premies gevelisolatie
I read your post and I found it amazing! thank! Gevelbepleistering
A good blog always comes-up with new and exciting information and while reading I have feel that this blog is really have all those quality that qualify a blog to be a one. Crepi gevels
I have read your article, it is very informative and helpful for me.I admire the valuable information you offer in your articles. Thanks for posting it.. Voordelen crepi
I have read your excellent post. This is a great job. I have enjoyed reading your post first time. I want to say thanks for this post. Thank you… Spouwisolatie
It has fully emerged to crown Singapore’s southern shores and undoubtedly placed her on the global map of residential landmarks. I still scored the more points than I ever have in a season for GS. I think you would be hard pressed to find somebody with the same consistency I have had over the years so I am happy with that. Offertes aanvragen
Your content is so inspiring and full of dedication! check this out! rs7 sports
Your information is very good. Keep up the work. I will definitely invite my friends to read again.
คาสิโนออนไลน์
Hey there! Stay on top of all the cricket action with ek bet Whether it’s live scores, match results, or breaking news about your favorite teams and players, we’ve got it all covered!
Hey there! Stay on top of all the cricket action with yeticasino Whether it’s live scores, match results, or breaking news about your favorite teams and players, we’ve got it all covered!
I read few posts on this web site and I conceive that your blog is very interesting and has sets of fantastic information. หวย ลาว ย้อน หลัง
Snowflake has revolutionized the way organizations approach data warehousing and analytics. Its cloud-based architecture, combined with its scalability, performance, and flexibility, makes it an ideal choice for businesses of all sizes. Whether it’s for data warehousing, integration, analytics, or machine learning, Snowflake provides the tools and capabilities needed to drive data-driven decision-making and innovation.
Snowflake Training in Hyderabad
The initiatives led by Central Atlanta Progress (CAP) and the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District (ADID) do indeed paint an uplifting picture of urban revitalization and economic stimulation. However, as highlighted in your article, the representation within CAP’s leadership and their portrayal of diversity raises some critical concerns about inclusivity and the actual beneficiaries of these developments.
It is imperative that the leadership composition of such influential organizations mirrors the demographic makeup of the community they serve. With 54% of Atlanta’s population being African American, yet only a fraction represented in CAP’s executive board, one has to question the effectiveness and fairness in decision-making processes affecting such a diverse populace.
Furthermore, the portrayal of diversity within CAP’s digital presence, as mentioned, does not seem to align with the on-ground realities of Downtown Atlanta. This discrepancy might contribute to a skewed public perception, potentially overshadowing the pressing issues faced by underrepresented communities.
These concerns bring to light the importance of authentic representation and equitable community engagement in urban development efforts. For a truly inclusive approach, CAP might consider diversifying its board and ensuring that all future projects genuinely address and benefit the entire spectrum of Atlanta’s residents.
In the spirit of comprehensive improvement and true diversity, perhaps CAP could explore more inclusive strategies similar to those found in a good Tee-Kompendium, where diverse types of tea are blended to cater to all palates, ensuring a richer and more balanced offering. Such an approach could ensure that the socio-economic benefits of Atlanta’s urban revitalization efforts are enjoyed by all members of the community, not just a select few.
Your article has given me a new appreciation for the nuances of [topic]. trang cá cược bóng đá
I read this article. I think You put a lot of effort to create this article. I appreciate your work. bex warren jacket
Hi everyone! How is everything going? I think everyone is getting a lot of value from this site, and your feedback is incredibly useful for newcomers. – tiranga lottery
Hi everyone! How is everything going? I think everyone is getting a lot of value from this site, and your feedback is incredibly useful for newcomers. – my11 circle cricket
This article raises important questions about the true impact of Central Atlanta Progress Inc. (CAP) and the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District (ADID) on the diversity and representation in Downtown Atlanta. While CAP’s initiatives like Trees Atlanta and the Downtown Green Source Program sound promising on paper, the reality appears more complex. The digital portrayal of diversity seems skewed, not reflecting the actual demographic makeup of the area. For instance, the executive board’s composition and the imagery used on CAP’s website do not align with Atlanta’s diverse population, as highlighted by the U.S. census data.
Moreover, the images presented by CAP, such as those of Woodruff Park, seem almost like false advertising when considering the significant presence of homeless individuals, predominantly African American, that visitors would encounter in reality. This discrepancy underscores the need for a more genuine representation of the community.
Addressing these disparities requires a more inclusive approach, ensuring that all community members benefit from the improvements and investments. It is also crucial for CAP and similar organizations to provide accurate and honest depictions of the areas they are revitalizing, rather than an idealized version that does not account for existing challenges. Platforms like Info-Serve can play a vital role in bridging these gaps by providing comprehensive and accurate information that reflects the true state of communities. What steps do you think CAP and ADID should take to ensure their efforts truly benefit all residents of Atlanta?
Someone Sometimes with visits your blog regularly and recommended it in my experience to read as well. The way of writing is excellent and also the content is top-notch. Thanks for that insight you provide the readers! dca airport car service
You delivered such an impressive piece to read, giving every subject enlightenment for us to gain information. Thanks for sharing such information with us due to which my several concepts have been cleared. party bus baltimore
While the initiatives by Central Atlanta Progress Inc. (CAP) have indeed contributed to the betterment of Downtown Atlanta, it’s crucial to reflect on whether these improvements are equitable across all demographics. The disparity in representation within CAP’s executive board is concerning. Given that 54% of Atlanta’s population is African American, it is important for leadership to reflect this diversity to genuinely address and represent the interests of the community. Just as Feier-Fox plans its events to be inclusive and representative of all guests, CAP should aim for the same inclusivity and representation within its organizational structure. How do you think CAP can improve its approach to diversity and inclusion to better serve all residents of Atlanta?
Hi to all, how is everything, I think every one is getting more from this site,
and your views are nice for new users. – tiranga lottery
Your explanations were clear and easy to understand, and your attention to detail was greatly appreciated.카지노사이트모음
Easily, the article is actually the best topic on this registry related issue. I fit in with your conclusions and will eagerly look forward to your next updates. prijs eps isolatie
Great tips and very easy to understand. This will definitely be very useful for me when I get a chance to start my blog. Offerte airco
I need to to thank you for this very good read!! I definitely loved every little bit of it. I have you bookmarked to check out new things you post… eps isolatie prijs
If your looking for Online Illinois license plate sticker renewals then you have need to come to the right place.We offer the fastest Illinois license plate sticker renewals in the state. Panasonic lucht water warmtepomp
This is a great inspiring article.I am pretty much pleased with your good work.You put really very helpful information… Toepassingen eps isolatie
With so many books and articles coming up to give gateway to make-money-online field and confusing reader even more on the actual way of earning money, Opbrengst zonnepanelen
I have express a few of the articles on your website now, and I really like your style of blogging. I added it to my favorite’s blog site list and will be checking back soon… Voordelen lucht water warmtepompen
Nice knowledge gaining article. This post is really the best on this valuable topic. eps isolatie toepassingen
Pretty good post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say that I have really enjoyed reading your blog posts. Any way I’ll be subscribing to your feed and I hope you post again soon. Zonnepanelen kopen
The next time I read a blog, I hope that it doesnt disappoint me as much as this one. I mean, I know it was my choice to read, but I actually thought you have something interesting to say. All I hear is a bunch of whining about something that you could fix if you werent too busy looking for attention. Prijs lucht water warmtepomp
Great Article it its really informative and innovative keep us posted with new updates. its was really valuable. thanks a lot. eps isolatie voordelen
I think this is a standout amongst the most critical data for me. What”s more, i”m happy perusing your article. Be that as it may, ought to comment on some broad things Prijs zonnepanelen
You know your projects stand out of the herd. There is something special about them. It seems to me all of them are really brilliant! Lucht water warmtepomp premies
Very nice article, I enjoyed reading your post, very nice share, I want to twit this to my followers. Thanks!. Lucht lucht warmtepomp
This is also a very good post which I really enjoy reading. It is not everyday that I have the possibility to see something like this. Warmtepomp
I wanted to thank you for this great read!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you post. Lucht-lucht warmtepomp
I need to to thank you for this very good read!! I definitely loved every little bit of it. I have you bookmarked to check out new things you post… Warmtepomp prijs