Cohousing-L Mailing List: diversity

[Anne Fleck (solianna]

Hi,
 
In most cohousing groups I've met and read about, the owners have the luxury
(read: money) of being "different" by choice. Yet to build and maintain a
successful project, one really needs more like-mindedness in a group than
not; the desire to live in a particular type of community and make the
compromises that that requires.
 
To get real diversity those people who have the choice to be different have
to accommodate those who are trying to "fit in". These are often people who
are challenged financially, physically, culturally, or mentally. These folks
want "normal" and cohousing isn't it. I think it's arrogant and disingenuous
for fairly well-off cohousers to desire diversity to ease their political
conscience or provide entertainment. Or worse, effect zoning regulations in
their favor by "allowing" the "less fortunate" in. Give me a break! 
 
Anne at Jackson Place Cohousing, Seattle