Jewish Americans, African Americans, and Hispanic Americans were not permitted to purchase houses in the suburb of Lakewood, California when it was first built in 1950. However, the developers reversed this policy within a few years and started selling homes to families regardless of religious faith or ethnicity. What does this tell us about stigma?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that the developers reversed their policy indicates that stigmatized identities can change over time. The previous prohibition against certain groups purchasing homes suggests stigma was initially present, but the ability to purchase homes regardless of religious faith or ethnicity indicates a shift away from that stigma.

Jewish Americans, African Americans, and Hispanic Americans Were Not Permitted