A facepalm moment if ever there was one

ghetto (noun)
any segregated mode of living or working that results from bias or stereotyping; “the relative security of the gay ghetto”; “no escape from the ghetto of the typing pool”
– Princeton University WordNet dictionary.

Cordoning off dangerous neighborhoods is how you create ghettos. Basic human nature dictates that most people subconsciously imitate those around them to avoid social conflict. Put a person in a mixed neighborhood where crime isn’t tolerated, and that person will more often than not lead a straight life. But put them in a place where crime is a way of life, and that same person learns that crime is the natural way of things, and goes bad. Of course there’s more to it and it’s not true for everyone, but nonetheless there is a clear and unmistakable pattern. This is why most affordable housing programs now focus on spreading low income housing around town rather than focusing all of it into a handful of gigantic housing projects.

Every city planner in the country, and most people with common sense, know that as a rule, ghettos are bad for the city. Especially ghettos of crime. Nobody in their right mind would try and create one.

It boggles the mind, then, that Mayor Fenty and Police Chief Lanier want to do exactly that, and create a ghetto in the heart of Washington.

Never mind that closing off entire sections of the city to people that don’t live there is blatantly unconstitutional, it’s a stupid, stupid idea. Even if it’s just for ten days, you’re sending a message that legitimate citizens, business and money have no place in that part of the city.

Don’t be surprised if legitimate citizens, business and money heed the message.