Sapelo Island News

social-issues2 years ago•1 min saved

Revamped zoning laws threaten America's last Gullah Geechee community

Sapelo Island, one of America's last intact Gullah Geechee communities, is at risk due to revamped zoning laws that allow for larger homes, potentially leading to million-dollar properties and higher property taxes. This could price out current homeowners and threaten the cultural heritage of the community. The situation is seen as a battle of rich versus poor, with racial disparity playing a role as well. The descendants of the community are concerned about the future of their historic enclave.

via CBS News|

#gullah-geechee #property-prices #racial-disparity

social-justice2 years ago•2 min saved

"Slave Descendants Battle for Land Rights Amidst Local Vote on Enclave Development"

The Gullah-Geechee community, descendants of enslaved people, are fighting against the removal of zoning restrictions in Hogg Hammock, a historic area on Sapelo Island, Georgia. The community fears that the removal of these restrictions will lead to wealthy transplants developing larger homes, increasing property taxes, and displacing them. The county, which is 65% white, has voted to remove language acknowledging the area's unique needs and preventing the removal of the indigenous population. This dispute is the latest in a series of conflicts between county officials and the small historic Black community, who have previously protested against property tax increases and sued the county for racial discrimination. Residents and state lawmakers are calling for a delay in the vote to protect their cultural history and heritage.

via The Guardian US|

#displacement #gullah-geechee #historical-land