Final Research Essay by Darshan Shrestha
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Dec 6, 2023
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Research Essay
Darshan Shrestha
Centennial College
COM171, sec-026(Winter 2023)
Professor Douglas Smith
April 3
rd
, 2023
2
Research Essay
From northeast Calgary to Harvard and beyond: the story of one family's triumph over
postal code stigma. The article is a personal reflection written by an individual who settled with
their family in the northeast quadrant of Calgary, a diverse community that is often stigmatized
and looked down upon by wealthier residents in other areas of the city. The author shares their
experiences and challenges of living in this community, including negative incidents such as
break-ins and homelessness, but also highlights the strengths and beauty of the area, such as
affordable housing, proximity to amenities, and cultural diversity. The article culminates with the
author's pride in their daughter's achievement of graduating from Harvard University and the
message that people should not be judged by their postal code.
The article sheds light on the
stigma faced by residents of certain communities based on their postal code and highlights the
need to recognize the beauty and potential of all neighborhoods, regardless of their perceived
reputation.
The author reflects on their decision to settle in the northeast quadrant of Calgary, a
diverse community often looked down upon by wealthier residents in other areas. Despite some
negative incidents, they appreciate the amenities, proximity to ethnic stores and restaurants, and
affordable housing. Their daughter thrived, eventually graduating from Harvard University with
a master's degree in public policy. The author believes this speaks to the strength and beauty of
their community, urging readers not to judge people by their postal code.
The writer expresses her feelings regarding the disparity between the people living in
getting a job in accordance with the address. She writes, “I have no evidence if one's home
address can impact employment, but what it shows is the stigma — and the resulting fear of
stigma — is real.” The author's comment underscores the pervasive and harmful impact of social
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stigma on individuals and communities, particularly in the context of employment opportunities.
While the author acknowledges that she does not have empirical evidence to support the claim
that a person's home address can impact their employment prospects, the mere fear of such
discrimination can have real consequences for individuals seeking to improve their economic
circumstances. This highlights the need for greater awareness and action to address the
underlying prejudices and biases that lead to such stigma, and to promote inclusive and equitable
opportunities for all.
Dennison and Yap (2017) conducted a study in a large metropolitan area to explore how
residential address affects employment opportunities. The study found that individuals residing
in certain neighborhoods, particularly those with low social status and poverty, faced limited job
prospects due to factors such as discrimination, lack of access to resources and networks, and
limited opportunities for education and skill development.
This study highlights the reality of
how a person's residential address can significantly impact their employment prospects,
particularly in areas with low social status and poverty. The findings underscore the importance
of developing policies and interventions to address these disparities and promote equal access to
employment opportunities for all.
Therefore, there is need for action to address underlying
prejudices and biases and promote inclusive and equitable opportunities for all individuals
seeking to improve their economic circumstances.
The writer also talks about one of the proud moments of her life and pays gratitude
towards globalization in the education field. She writes, “She held an inflated globe in her hands
to symbolize the global importance of her master's degree in public policy.” The statement
suggests that the person holds her master's degree in public policy in high regard and views it as
a tool for global impact. By using the inflated globe as a symbol, she underscores the importance
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of thinking globally when it comes to addressing public policy issues. This also highlights the
role of education in shaping individuals' perspectives and abilities to contribute to positive
change at a global level.
Stromquist's (2016) research suggests that globalization has brought about significant
changes in education, particularly in terms of the integration of cultures and the need for a global
perspective. This highlights the importance of developing educational programs that promote
cross-cultural understanding and prepare students for the globalized world.
As globalization
continues to shape the world, it is crucial for education to adapt and equip students with the skills
and knowledge necessary to navigate and thrive in an increasingly interconnected and diverse
global community.
In this context, the person's use of the inflated globe as a symbol not only
represents the global importance of her degree but also underscores the critical role of education
in promoting global awareness and cultivating the skills needed to address global challenges.
In conclusion, the writer's daughter felt disappointed when her school's competitors made
a scornful comment about her school from the northeast quadrant of the city. The writer defends
the quadrant, acknowledging its cultural diversity and vibrancy. Despite some negative incidents,
the family continues to love the area, and their daughter's success at Harvard shows that the
quadrant should not be judged by its postal code.
What steps can be taken to break down
stereotypes and reduce the stigma associated with certain neighborhoods or postal codes? By
embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity, we can create a more equitable and just society
where everyone can thrive, regardless of their address.
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References
Dennison, R., & Yap, M. (2017). The impact of residential address on employment opportunities.
Urban Studies, 54(8), 1955-1973. doi:10.1177/0042098016634345
Patki, M. (2022). My low-income community doesn't deserve stigma. It's an amazing place to
raise
my family. CBC.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/manorama-patki-first-person
calgary-northeast-1.6588812
Stromquist, N. P. (2016). Globalization and education: An introduction. In N. P. Stromquist (Ed.),
Globalization and education: Integration and contestation across cultures (pp. 1-24).
Rowman & Littlefield.