Multi-Cultural Community
Some people judge a good neighborhood by its normalcy. Some, by whether it has pristine lawns and quiet residents who all seem to fit into a perfect picture of "American" life. One of the most intriguing things about Rockwood is that it doesn't fit that perfect mold, and the interesting people and cultures makes me appreciate how rich and diverse our community is.
I have many rich experiences to share about the residents, but for now, let me explain Rockwood with a broad stroke. Attached to this blog is a picture which contrasts only two of these cultures - the Hispanic and Russian populations.
Rockwood is a neighborhood that was built up mostly in the 60s as a home for middle class families. The Anglos that live here now are mostly elderly who raised a family here, or young couples who purchased an affordable first home here.
The Russian/Slavic population mostly attends the Home of God Russian Church, located next door to Park Place Coffee. The population is varied from the very young to the very old, who walk to church on Saturday by the droves. The view of hundreds walking to church is seen by some as a beautiful sight, by others an annoyance.
The Hispanic population in this community has grown very large. Many of the local markets and services are built to support this growing population. The Catholic Church across the street from my cafe has been designated as the Hispanic Catholic Church for the area, and hosts many masses and celebrations for the culture.
The black population is more recent to Rockwood, after a large community became relocated to this community from North Portland. It was partially gentrification, and part a travesty on the part of the Housing Authority of Portland when they remodeled Columbia Villa and displaced many of their tenants.
Put this altogether and you have Rockwood. I believe, by viewing the people walking by from my cafe window in just one day there would be many amazing stories to tell. I hope to share some of these stories of my special neighbors one-by-one.
I have many rich experiences to share about the residents, but for now, let me explain Rockwood with a broad stroke. Attached to this blog is a picture which contrasts only two of these cultures - the Hispanic and Russian populations.
Rockwood is a neighborhood that was built up mostly in the 60s as a home for middle class families. The Anglos that live here now are mostly elderly who raised a family here, or young couples who purchased an affordable first home here.
The Russian/Slavic population mostly attends the Home of God Russian Church, located next door to Park Place Coffee. The population is varied from the very young to the very old, who walk to church on Saturday by the droves. The view of hundreds walking to church is seen by some as a beautiful sight, by others an annoyance.
The Hispanic population in this community has grown very large. Many of the local markets and services are built to support this growing population. The Catholic Church across the street from my cafe has been designated as the Hispanic Catholic Church for the area, and hosts many masses and celebrations for the culture.
The black population is more recent to Rockwood, after a large community became relocated to this community from North Portland. It was partially gentrification, and part a travesty on the part of the Housing Authority of Portland when they remodeled Columbia Villa and displaced many of their tenants.
Put this altogether and you have Rockwood. I believe, by viewing the people walking by from my cafe window in just one day there would be many amazing stories to tell. I hope to share some of these stories of my special neighbors one-by-one.
posted by Dina DiNucci at
11:42 PM
2 Comments:
Hi Dina,
I'm one of those who find the Russians on their way to church to be a beautiful sight. I'm a little surprised that anyone would be annoyed by it. I aspire to someday have the energy to dress myself and my family that nicely for church. (I also aspire to walk, as they do, instead of drive.)
I like your blog (and your cafe!). It's good to hear someone talking about what is going on in the community.
God bless,
Anna
I love Saturdays, partially because it is the day the Russians walk back-n-forth to church.
Culture, character, and diversity. As a woman, I also feel pretty safe here. even if I do something like go to the store at 2-4am.
I love my Rockwood.
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