Kings Mountain, North Carolina, has become a hotbed for real estate and development, particularly since the opening of the Catawba Two Kings Casino in 2021. Major developers like Insignis Partners are planning massive mixed-use projects, notably Dixon Ridge, which is targeting a 384-acre site.
Gentrification Concerns
The influx of development projects could accelerate the gentrification process, affecting long-time residents and particularly the Compact Community, a predominantly People of Color community.
Preserving Family Land: A Social and Economic Imperative
For People of Color, there are intrinsic benefits in holding onto family land:
Wealth Accumulation: Land ownership provides a tangible asset that can appreciate over time.
Cultural Heritage: It serves as a physical manifestation of family history and cultural legacy.
Community Empowerment: Maintaining land within the community can create a buffer against external economic pressures.
A Question of Autonomy and Dignity
For those who value personal autonomy as the cornerstone of human dignity, the act of holding onto family land takes on a higher meaning. It serves as a form of resistance against external forces that often work to disempower marginalized communities.
In conclusion, while the incoming developments promise economic growth for Kings Mountain, it's crucial for People of Color, especially those in the Compact Community, to consider the long-term benefits of maintaining family land.