Wilson and Gartz Discuss Her Book “Redlined”

Connie Wilson host of her own series at WeeklyWilson.com has contributed for distribution to Chicago Broadcasting Network this podcast interview with  Linda Gartz, author of Redlined A Memoir of Race, Change, and Fractured Community in 1960’s Chicago.

As black folks move deeper into Chicago’s West Side during the 1960’s, white residents and homeowners fled by the thousands primarily to the suburbs.

Set against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement, Redlined exposes the  U.S. government’s racist lending rules that refused mortgages to anyone in specific geographic areas that were identified as having even one black resident.  A red line was literally drawn around these areas which then came to be referred to as “redlined” and therefore undesirable for real estate investment.

But Fred and Lil Gartz choose to stay in their rapidly integrating neighborhood, with the hope of overcoming previous prejudices as they meet and formed friendships with their new African American neighbors.

The community sinks into increasing poverty after two race riots destroy its once vibrant business district, but Fred and Lil continue to maintain their property and nurture the residents of their three multi-unit buildings for the next twenty years in the midst of a devastated landscape—while their own personal relationship cracks and withers.

After the death of her parents, Linda discovers long-hidden letters, diaries, documents, and photos stored in the attic of her former home that provides insight into their own relationship and the added pressures of dealing with mental illness.

“Redlined” is the result of the author’ determined quest while searching through her family archives and researching various publication about racial change in American neighborhoods to learn more about the forces that shattered her parents’ marriage and undermined her community

This well written book is entertaining, informative and enlightening.