What happens to a dream deferred?
Since the Gold Rush, California has been a state that epitomized the American Dream. People came from all over for more than the Hollywood veneer: drawing over 300,000 people not just from across the US but half from across the Pacific too. The cost of living was low, the weather unparalleled, and the economy quickly rising.
Today however, the American dream seems less achievable in the Golden state. Urban sprawl, skyrocketing real estate prices, and saturated markets feel like they contradict the fact that home sales are up in Southern California. The NY Times claims that the American Dream is “alive and well,” and the state economy is projected to eclipse the nation’s. But, if you live in California, you know that the white picket fence is a dream that doesn’t include all.
Talk Shoppe recently conducted virtual focus groups for a non-profit dedicated to progress to understand California residents’ views on affordable housing. We discussed their ideas of equity, community involvement, and housing cost and availability and observed noticeable differences across segments. But when it came time to discuss the American Dream, 4 out of 5 segments feared that it was no longer attainable in California. Many shared that they thought about leaving to pursue that dream elsewhere, but staying to be closer to their extended families. They know they can get a bigger house – or move from renting to buying – if they move elsewhere. But even in the Covid-19 era, when non-essential jobs can be done remotely, they choose to stay put.
So, as Langston Hughes asked, what happens to a dream deferred? A country built on a dream can’t exist without it, so for existential reasons the understanding of the dream has to change. These days, the American Dream for many Californians has come to signify something more personal and less material:
Instead of a white picket fence that keeps people out, they opt for communal connections and shared experiences.
Instead of 2.5 kids, they opt for being closer to those who are already here today and nourishing bonds with existing families members.
Instead of a mortgage (or “death pledge”), they opt for new leases on life by exploring new areas and interests within them.
It’s not simply that home is where the heart is, but reframing what Americans want with respect to what seems achievable. People change over time. It’s only natural that their dreams should too.
As we celebrate the inauguration of a new President, the American Dream again comes up for discussion. With higher voter turnout than ever before, people are not ready to give up on the American Dream of opportunity, possibility, and hope just yet.