the cost of segregation & power of networks

About six years ago, the Metropolitan Planning Commission published it’s Cost of Segregation report which concluded that Chicago’s high levels of segregation annually lead to 200+ additional homicides and the loss of more than $4B in annual economic activity. These shocking conclusions suggest that long term housing and other policies must incentivize a different course. Having lived and worked in a highly segregated community for more than 2 decades, it’s become clear to us that the isolation (reflected in both race and class) creates unseen obstacles for community leaders. The lack of access to opportunity is downright overwhelming.

This lack of access created by segregation, however, is overcome by those that develop extensive networks. Networks are essentially relationships. The ties that networks build are sometimes strong and sometimes weak, but according to network theory, having substantial ties is enough — it doesn’t matter if they are strong or weak. Both forms of ties create access to knowledge and opportunity.

It is with this in mind that the work we do is aimed at accessing, building and sharing networks. Networks lead to jobs, expertise, capital, encouragement, care and more. Just think about what it feels like when someone says to you “I know someone you need to know!” It feels amazing because it makes you sense an opportunity or a surprise is at hand.

There are effectively three ways to build your network. First is word of mouth. Someone you know introduces you to someone else. Second is proximity. You go someplace where you are more likely to meet a “relevant” person such as a conference, a special event or a co-working space. Third, is technology.

We are working to use all three of these means to develop networks as we seek to build and give away our network to organizational leaders who will benefit from them. Networks are one way to break up the effects of segregation. If the MPC premise is accurate, it also means that networks are a pathway to life and opportunity!

I know someone you need to know!