Brick Lane

 

 

 

Today our class went on an excursion to Brick Lane, an area of London famous for its connection to several immigrant groups including the Bangladeshi people. Recently it has also become a topic of debate over the impact of gentrifcation and who has the right to fight for sontrol over a certain space. While reading about Brick Lane both independently and with the class, I was curious what percentage of the area was truly overcome with signs of gentrification such as pricey vintage shops and expensive bistros. I mean its truly hard to imagine how a space operates when you really only have articles to go off of, therefore I really enjoyed our excursion as I was able to experience the place for myself. Prior to our visit I felt that maybe the gentrification was at very early stages from the way it was described however I believe it has been well affected by incoming businesses and initaitives to develop the area into a touristy location. There was however still remnants of the diverse community still very prevalent within the area, especially as we moved closer to the mosque. The entire experience was definitely conflicting especially because I enjoy vintage clothes and markets and it almost seems that to contribute to those businesses is kind of an active betrayal of the actually local community. I was also mesmerized by all of the street art and can imagine that these installation and paintings were also a byproduct of this gentrification, something used to add character to the area. Therefore it's hard to feel like you're justified in enjoying the experience, when you know that these spaces have in a way been ripped from the community. Especially when you consider place attachment, and the possibility that the vintage shop you're exploring now could've been a restaurant that held extreme sentimental value to the bangladeshi people just a couple years ago. I enjoyed our excursion and hope to discuss some more about the affect these changes in the neighborhood have on the local community and cuture cultivated by said group over the years they've inhabited the area. Very excited to discuss our trip in class!

- Francesca :)