Living in North Jersey, I am exposed to my fair share of
stereotyping. Not only from people living in neighboring states but also from
people across the country. However, after thinking it over I believe I have
found one of the roots of all this stereotyping. That root just happens to be
the largest city in New Jersey, Newark. Newark is a very industrious city and
was a booming, up and coming place in the early 1900’s, however in the mid
1900’s a long series of race riots forced many Newarkians to move out. Newark
then entered its own sort of mini-depression. Fast-forward about 50 years and
Newark is still a shell of what it used to be, industry has returned but the
same charm the city once had has disappeared.
Now, Newark
is home to the largest airport in New Jersey and one of the largest airports in
the tri-state area. Every day thousands of people from all across the world fly
into Newark airport. As they fly in they quickly see a lot of trash and
uncleanliness, they also see a bunch of smokestacks, and run down buildings.
For most people this is their only exposure to New Jersey. After they fly into
Newark they either head into New York City or travel out of the state on
whatever mission they may be on.
Seeing only
Newark has painted a picture in traveler’s minds that New Jersey is this widely
overpopulated and massively polluted state. However, if people stick around
they will notice the beauty and variety New Jersey has. From the homely suburbs
of New York City, to the wonderful beaches of the Jersey Shore, New Jersey has
quite a bit to offer. One city, does not define a whole state.
-Roman Herman
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