Month/Year of Graduation

5-2023

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Department

Political Science

First Advisor

Terri Crawford

Abstract

The systemic denial of mortgages, loans, and other financial services to specific neighborhoods on the basis of race, a practice known as redlining, has continued to have a disproportionately negative effect on communities of color since its inception in the 1930s. The contemporary impacts of redlining can be seen in ongoing disparities in household income, property values, generational wealth, and more. This paper uses a three-pronged approach to extensively examine the history, application, and implications of redlining, with an emphasis on how the practice affects modern educational outcomes in Omaha public schools. The paper analyzes statistical data from the Nebraska Education Profile, interprets results from a survey sent to Omaha public high school graduates, and compiles information collected from questionnaires and interviews conducted with Omaha education professionals. Although the scope of the paper is limited to Omaha schools, the paper concludes with significant findings that schools in formerly redlined neighborhoods have less access to opportunities and resources for success, impacting student achievement. The paper ends with potential pathways and solutions on how to create a more equitable educational network.

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