In the early 1900's, Harlem was a retreat for Blacks migrating from confederate states, destined to become the center of Black historical and cultural significance. By the 20's it grew into the headquarters of black literacy and intellectual development, giving birth to a movement known as the Harlem Renaissance. After lots of hard work and initiative taken by Black eutrapanewers, Harlem became classified as a place where African Americans began to establish an identity. Although segregation contaminated Harlem in the 30's, Harlem was still able to grow and create Black role models such as Adam Clayton Powell, who is nationally known for his accomplishments. Unfortunately, the Black community suffered major setbacks in the 40's. Black men were sent off to war and their wives where forced to support their families by working in factories, leading to the destruction of family structure in the Black community.

Interest in Real Estate throughout Harlem has greatly increased as the number of White residents multiplies each day. Margaret Hamilton, retired from Wall Street, feels that the younger generation has lost interest in the community. "Whites are purchasing property in Harlem because it's cheaper than property downtown. Buildings in Harlem have been abandoned for years and minorities have not attempted to renovate the area, " said Hamilton.

This lack of acquisition is causing the displacement of low-income families in the community. Many minority groups in Harlem seem to be losing interest in the property and non-minority groups seem to be gaining interest. If this is the case, then such a process will benefit buyers and lead to the over-crowding of poverty-stricken communities.

Central Park was the chosen area to question the residents of Harlem about their reactions to this new phenomenon. Reginald Jordan says, "Harlem is being invaded by white people because the real estate downtown is too expensive so they come to Harlem where it is cheap and it is easy to get to." Jordan believes that as long as African Americans continue to be passive and let this happen, we will lose in the long run. He believes that if a conflict occurs the minorities will not be satisfied with the outcome. "When an injustice happens to minorities, they are passive and let it go so they whites will get away with it," said Jordan.

Marilyn Walker, a 50-year-old registered nurse, says that "America is a melting pot of different people, cultures, and lifestyles, we have no right to regulate who moves into certain communities," said Walker. She believes that whoever can behave and be a productive part of society then we should welcome them with open arms.

It appears that if this gentrification continues, by the year 2010, Harlem will no longer exist as the bustling marketplace and culture center for minorities in America. The nation lacks areas of positive progress for African Americans that focuses on culture. If Harlem becomes occupied by middle-class Whites, the Black culture in Harlem will diminish.