Social Networks

Social networks are systems of social relationships among people and groups. We found four visible social networks embedded within the Compton community.

Political Network
City Hall lies almost directly in the center of the city. Facing the street are two representations of prominent African American leaders and politicians of the past and present. On one of the walls is a large mural of President Barack Obama, and in front of city hall is a sculpture of Martin Luther King, Jr. The mural and sculpture represent two icons to which minorities, particularly African Americans, can relate. Because of the large minority population in Compton, there is most likely a strong political affiliation to the Democratic Party.

Economic Network
Within Compton, there is an active business-related network focused on the economic development of the city. The strength of this network is demonstrated by the “business to business” council and the active chamber of commerce within the city. Examples of the budding economic development are the new transit center, housing complex, and the retail power-center that includes Home Depot and TGI Friday’s.

Recreational network:
There are various complexes and areas within the community that facilitate informal social networks based around specific activities. There are pocket parks around the community that, in addition to providing aesthetic value, provide a place for families and children to gather and play. There is also a skate park that was dedicated to the city by professional skateboarder Tony Hawk. The skate park is a safe facility located in a park that allows youth to meet with peers who perhaps have similar interests. Additionally, one of the major recreational facilities is the Salvation Army community center. The center attempts to provide a safe haven at which community members can weight-lift, play sports, work in a sound studio, and learn musical instruments.

Faith-Based Network:
There are numerous churches within the city that accommodate the diverse religious and racial groups within the community including Baptists, Seven Day Adventists, Catholics, and various Asian/Pacific Islander religions. Additionally, there have been important specific initiatives resulting in the development of faith-based networks. One of the most important is “Unity Day,” which is focused on racial reconciliation, and includes a network of selected pastors available for providing mentoring and ethical accountability of city council members.