Today, the Cleveland metro area regularly ranks as one of the top ten most racially segregated urban areas in the country. Yet, a few communities in Greater Cleveland stand out as national models of racial diversity, and Cleveland Heights stands out among them. How did it happen? A new book out next week traces the courage, dedication, and resilience of grass root activists who waged a fight to transform Cleveland Heights from an exclusive, all-white suburb into an inclusive, diverse community.
Resisting Segregation documents how Cleveland Heights citizens challenged a seemingly insurmountable social problem: the lack of housing opportunities for African Americans. In 1964, a group of white women, inspired by the national civil rights movement, joined with black citizens – leaders and visionaries – to fight for racial equality and open up Cleveland Heights for all.
Over the next 12 years, community activists lobbied city government to welcome integration and fought federal and state policies, resistant realtors, widespread racism, and hostile neighbors who enforced segregation. They worked as opponents bombed their homes and realtors preyed on homeowners’ fears through blockbusting. In the end, they created long-standing organizations and changed city government to forever shape the future of Cleveland Heights. They transformed a virtually all-white suburb into an enduring, integrated community with a vibrant civic culture.
Resisting Segregation is a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of this unique community and for those looking for a path forward toward greater racial justice.
Produced by local publisher Cleveland Landmarks Press, Resisting Segregation demonstrates how citizen activism works, how people can fight systemic racism, and how our communities can improve with a commitment to racial equity.
On Wed. 12/9 we hosted a conversation with Susan Kaeser, author of Resisting Segregation. She discussed her new book and answered your questions. To view the power point from that conversation click here.
