Customer Reviews

As Long As They Don't Move Next Door: Segregation and Racial Conflict in American Neighborhoods

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Meyer's book clearly illustrates that, as far as race-relations are concerned, a solution may not necessarily be in the near future. By explaining and expounding on the instances and ramifications surrounding race issues and their effects on fair (or unfair as the case stands) housing, the reader is forced to consider where he stands in the grander schemes of prejudice and racism. As a historical tool, as well as a teaching guide, this book is both informative and revealing. Perhaps more importantly however, As Long As... forces one to examine their own attitudes towards blacks. It forces the reader to ask the question : In spite of current rhetoric, have things really changed? And the even bigger question of: Would it really bother me to have blacks living in my neighborhood? My guess is that most people would be glad that no one has to know their truthful answer. Very worthwhile and informative.

Stephen Meyer has identified a shining example of the complexity that is the American psyche. Told in a compelling weave of human drama and statistical truths, Next Door was difficult to put down.

The very ideals that validated the enormous suffering and loss of the U.S. Civil War are torn asunder with the subsequent isolation and residential subjugation of the newly "freed" in Northern society.

From misguided, misinformed Federal housing schemes and restrictive local ordinances in the name of peace to outright violence and lynch mob mentality, Mr. Meyer paints a clear and disturbing portrait of American hypocrisy.

A challenging work that is as much good reading as a good reference, Next Door is a must for any informed discussion on the housing plight of blacks in America.

When I was younger and openly challenged the misguided optimism that America would ever become a integrated society, I was viewed as bizzare and as a black racist. Mr. Meyer shows that White America has and continues to reject integration. Most of it is passive. However it has been ocassionaly violent. My parents' white neighbor next door moved out 6 weeks after my family moved in. Mr. Meyer points out it is the middle class Blacks who bear the brunt of this rejection. For any reader who wants to know why Louis Farrakhan and other Black Militants have a large appeal they need to read this book. Black Nationalism is the hate that hate produced and continues to nourish.