Economics Outline

Elizabeth Vilchis
Deven Xie

I. Introduction: The dynamic economics of the 116th Street neighborhood.

a. Neighborhood economics have always been subjected to and continue to be subjected to change.

b. Good and bad aspects of change.

II. Interview with Kaaw and the history of the 116th street neighborhood; its origins at the 125th street market and its move to 116th street.

a. Market was set up at 125th street. Many vendors were believed to be there illegally and some people complained about the environment of the market the mayor of NYC moved them to 116th street.

b. The harsh and dangerous condition of the 116th street area and the rebirth the African community brought about.

III The types of business the African community engaged in at 116th street.

a. Street vending

b. The African Market (Malcolm Shabazz Market).

c. The “brick and mortar” stores which sold a variety of goods in one store.

IV. The struggles the businessmen faced and how they overcame them.

a. Theft, limited English, determining how to relate to new customers at 116th street.

b. The role and support of Muslim religion in encouraging the economy of the neighborhood. (Malcolm Shabazz Business Outreach Center)

V. The economy today.

a. The type of business that dominate in the area today and the relative activity of the area.

b. The changes experienced by the economy due to seasons on the different type of businesses at 116th street (Interview with woman at African Market).

VI. Harlem catches the eye of NYC politicians, the see economic potential.

a. NYC politicians plan to transform Harlem.

b. Many corporate businesses like Popeyes, Rite Aid and Dunkin Donuts are moving in and ousting local businessmen.

c. Some African business feels they will be forced to move away from the neighborhood.

d. Current concerns of local businessmen regarding higher cost of living due to the corporate move (Interview with local restaurant owner).

e. Concerns of what will become of their businesses. Many fear their influence will be forgotten.

VII. Impact of the African people on 116th street.

a. From slum to rich African community to what appears to be will be a more mainstream community.

b. How will the African community adapt and how can their influence on the neighborhood be retained?