Glosing the Gate

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During the travels of this trip I visited with several persons that lived in gated communities, or neighborhoods governed by home owner's associations.  Now HOA's have been around a very long time and have been an interest to me.  Now I can certainly see the advantages of HOA's, but I've not totally bought into the concept.  That said, I'm always anxious to talk with those that live in HOA communities.

This trip though, It occurred to me that every one of the people that I've talked to recently said the same thing; that they appreciate the diversity in the city where they live.  They seem to be proud that their city has a diverse population by race, age, religion, etcetera. On the face of things, they seem to love (or at least tolerate) those that are different than them.  They travel, shop, work and play with those of a variety of cultures.

But back at home, things are different.  These friends lock themselves behind the gates of their community, and enact HOA rules preventing anyone from entering and changing their perfect utopia.  The HOA's prevent any changes to the homeowners private property that are outside the boundaries of the rules.  No remodelling,  No painting,  No cars older than a certain year.  Curfew hours.  No washing or maintaining of cars.  No. . . . and the list goes on and on.

As a result, these neighborhood become anything but diverse.  Persons with income, children, and most often people loose any desire to live in these communities because of prejudices of the residents who justify their actions while claiming to love diversity.  Gated communities may be fine for some, but please don't pretend to appreciate diversity while hiding behing your gate.

So, to those that have had recent visits from me, I won't apologize.  If the shoe fits . . .
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