Transnational Movements in Adams Morgan

I was unable to find much information regarding NGOs, religious groups, or other social movements as they pertain to Adams Morgan, therefore I have taken a somewhat unconventional approach to this.

Adams Morgan is an ethnically diverse neighborhood historically inhabited by waves of immigrants. Currently, it is in the midst of changing from an immigrant (primarily Hispanic) neighborhood to a younger and higher income middle class neighborhood by means of gentrification.

Gentrification itself can be considered a transnational movement, as it works in virtually the same way everywhere it's applied and occurs both as a development strategy and a natural process all around the world.

One interesting aspect that gentrification has had on Adams Morgan is that has reduced crime over the years. Adams Morgan was once a hotbed for crime and gang activity, particularly that of Salvadorian gang MS13.

Gangs are also transnational movements, although not necessarily the first thing that comes to mind when the term is mentioned. MS13 originated in Los Angeles after the civil war in El Salvador in the 1980s and has spread throughout the nation. It is suggested to have about 5,000 members in the DC area, most of which are or have been concentrated in Adams Morgan.

In the case of Adams Morgan, it appears that gentrification is occurring as a natural process and is receiving little, if any, help from the DC government. There are many signs advertising properties for sale via Southeby's International Reality, indicating that this is an area where properties are targeted to mostly upper income individuals.

Gentrification and the changing of Adams Morgan will no doubt leave little room for gangs like MS13 to operate, seeing as those moving into the neighborhood are not in the gang's target demographic and higher income individuals have little tolerance for gang presence and the crime it generates.

Thus, it seems like the future of the neighborhood will be shaped by the declining influence of one transnational movement (gangs), and the increasing influence of another movement (gentrification).