If racial segregation, discrimination, and inequality were not immediately apparent in some of the newer African American residential developments, a look at an older, "African American" mall finds a different story. South DeKalb Mall had a mainstream anchor store (Macy's) along with a mix of "ethnic" shops. It was also apparent that not a lot of money was invested in this second-rate, separate and unequal shopping experience.
Yet even here, the results are mixed. A newer, larger mall (Stonecrest) in Lithonia (southeast DeKalb) has been built, partly in response to the wealthier African American suburbs that have been built in Southeast DeKalb. Yet south-central and southwest DeKalb remain areas that feel more like the "red-lined" districts of the past.
A good companion post to your earlier one.
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