Undesign the Redline

Redlining is the practice of denying a credit-worthy applicant a loan for housing in a certain neighborhood, even though the applicant may otherwise be eligible for the loan. Redlining on a racial basis has been held by the courts to be an illegal practice. What are the roots of redlining and what effects does it still have today? How can we begin to think about a solution to redlining’s impact? Howard County Library System hosts Undesign the Redline, an interactive exhibit, now through December 31. Christie Lassen, Director of Communications and Partnerships at Howard County Library System, tells us more about the history of redlining.