Shifting Perceptions of Policing in Neighborhoods Experiencing Gentrification
Location
SU-216
Start Date
2-5-2025 9:00 AM
Department
Sociology
Abstract
Our project titled Shifting Perceptions of Policing in Neighborhoods Experiencing Gentrification explores perceptions of policing and surveillance practices in neighborhoods undergoing gentrification on the Northwest Side of Chicago. Throughout this research we examined how social control measures affect different sectors of society, particularly within neighborhoods experiencing gentrification. Semi-structured interviews with residents from two of Chicago’s Northwest Side neighborhoods were conducted. Qualitative data was collected on participants’ perceived impact of surveillance and policing measures in their neighborhoods. Literature reviews allowed us to gather information from academic articles and demographic reports to contextualize our findings. At the end, our group findings demonstrated that participation in community groups and organizations gave many residents a sense of agency. At the same time, our findings highlighted opposing views regarding different policing measures in these neighborhoods that were linked to racial and class identities. Our group built on each member’s findings to create a comprehensive final report that addressed the correlation between gentrification and perceptions of surveillance and policing tactics.
Faculty Sponsor
Juan Martinez
Shifting Perceptions of Policing in Neighborhoods Experiencing Gentrification
SU-216
Our project titled Shifting Perceptions of Policing in Neighborhoods Experiencing Gentrification explores perceptions of policing and surveillance practices in neighborhoods undergoing gentrification on the Northwest Side of Chicago. Throughout this research we examined how social control measures affect different sectors of society, particularly within neighborhoods experiencing gentrification. Semi-structured interviews with residents from two of Chicago’s Northwest Side neighborhoods were conducted. Qualitative data was collected on participants’ perceived impact of surveillance and policing measures in their neighborhoods. Literature reviews allowed us to gather information from academic articles and demographic reports to contextualize our findings. At the end, our group findings demonstrated that participation in community groups and organizations gave many residents a sense of agency. At the same time, our findings highlighted opposing views regarding different policing measures in these neighborhoods that were linked to racial and class identities. Our group built on each member’s findings to create a comprehensive final report that addressed the correlation between gentrification and perceptions of surveillance and policing tactics.