This film tells the national story of redlining, a practice which embedded racial segregation and inequality into the development of American cities and suburbs.
What makes some neighborhoods more desirable than others? Why are similar homes in two parts of town dramatically different in value? Why are some neighborhoods falling apart while others are thriving? And how does this all play into the wealth and education gap we’re facing today?
Redlining maps, introduced in the 1930s, delineated risk areas for federally backed mortgages and home-ownership programs. Risk was determined almost entirely by race. Neighborhoods where no loans would be made were outlined in red, or literally “redlined.”
The film explores the stories of local families who were impacted by redlining, and the lasting effects of federal housing policies on the Miami Valley and the nation. It also makes some surprising discoveries about the roots of redlining and introduces some larger-than-life personalities who have been all but forgotten.
