Learning the Code of the Street Keeps Us Out of Harm's Way

 

When journalists visit City Hall, they rarely expect the mayor to stop everything for an on-the-spot interview. Instead, they set up an appointment. They befriend the administrative assistant. They build strong relationships to ensure they can get information when they need it quickly. Yet when venturing into communities of color, journalists often expect residents to stop what they are doing to help them, even though they are outsiders who look and speak differently.  When we do not show sources how much they are valued, they may shut down or get rid of us by telling us what they think we want to hear.

Failure to understand the code of the streets may put us and others in harm's way.

While serving as a national correspondent for the Philadelphia Inquirer, I was assigned to interview residents in a housing project in San Antonio after several single mothers had been shot and killed, prompting the mayor to hold a press urging residents to "cool it."  Then-U.S. Congressman Henry B. Gonzalez decided to hold a congressional hearing in the neighborhood to hear what residents had to say.

When I arrived, I immediately went to the community center where a young man was standing guard, looking very much like he was in charge.  I explained I was there to cover the hearing, and to discuss the conditions in the neighborhood. What was daily life like for the people who lived here? What type of barriers did they face? I was here to listen.

The young man declined an interview, though we chatted a bit. Less than a half hour later, I was walking the streets when a group of women rushed over. They explained that the drug dealers had sent out word that I was not a cop and it was OK to talk to me.  I later interviewed a courageous child who issued a plea to Congress to help protect the lives of their vulnerable moms.

After that, I never walked into a housing development without a plan. That experience taught me the importance of recognizing and understanding the roles people within a neighborhood play.  

Here are some of the lessons I've been given as I sought to improve my work and my communication skills: 

1) Ask for directions and engage with the community members. Take time to develop relationships. Visit barber shops and beauty shops for insights into the roles people play.  Talk to dog walkers. Visit with folks on their front porches. Check social media. 

2) Clearly state the purpose of the visit and seek help in understanding the neighborhood on a deeper level. Make it clear that they care about the people, as well as the story.

3) Leave behind contact information and assure residents of returning, showing commitment.

4) Dress appropriately for the neighborhood to signal respect and understanding.

5) Show respect and give respect in interactions with the community members. That simple gesture unlocks extraordinary and unforgettable experiences. While walking around a new neighborhood one day,  a group of teens came from behind me and surrounded me. I smiled and looked directly into the eyes of the young man who appeared to be in charge. "Gentlemen, how are you this morning?,"  I inquired. The teens laughed. Mr. In-Charge curtsied and then replied, "Milady." He then helped me to step over a puddle - a gallant act of chivalry. We laughed and went our separate ways.