Redlining maps, introduced in the 1930s, delineated risk areas for federally-funded home ownership programs. Neighborhoods where no investment would be made were outlined in red–literally “redlined”–and race was the primary factor in determining these zones. Because they were often unable to access housing loans, mortgages, and other financial services, residents of redlined areas were left with fewer housing and employment opportunities. A shrinking tax base led to insufficient public services and concentrated poverty. Meanwhile, investment poured into rapidly expanding, whiter suburbs, where families could purchase property and accrue wealth over time, while also accessing better-funded schools, jobs and healthcare.

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Visitors can place themselves on the map to see how policies may have advantaged or disadvantaged their families and neighbors.