#  Jeremiah Cha (APRW) 

 



####  calendar\_today Date and Time 

 **September 16, 2025** 

 12:00PM - 02:00PM EDT 

####  pin\_drop Location 

 **CGIS Knafel room K354**  



 

 [ Join via Zoom arrow\_circle\_right ](https://harvard.zoom.us/j/99320596113) 

 



 

### Speaker & Title

Jeremiah Cha, "Building Representation: The Politics of Development, Diversity, and Institutional Norms"

### Abstract

Metropolitan areas in the United States are undergoing rapid diversification, significantly reshaping the demographics of local leadership. This paper examines how shifts in the racial and ethnic composition of city councils influence land use and housing development, particularly in relation to decision-making diversity. Using data on city council elections and the distribution of new housing permits, I identify the causal effect of electing a minority representative on housing supply. The findings reveal that minority representation increases single-family housing construction at the expense of multi-family housing, challenging conventional expectations about ideology and race. Qualitative interviews with city council members suggest that efforts to address minority underrepresentation drive active support for single-family housing, while distrust of developers—rooted in fears of gentrification—fuels skepticism toward multi-family projects. Overall, the study presents a nuanced view of racial representation: while minorities achieve better representational outcomes, these gains can come with costs.

**Note:** If you plan to participate in APRW as a graduate student this year (either as a presenter or attendee), please enroll in the seminar on [my.harvard.edu](https://www.google.com/url?q=http://my.harvard.edu&sa=D&source=calendar&ust=1757265461666635&usg=AOvVaw1klFJs6T5Qxv2ecsCVHHZ0) (GOV 3004A) — this gives us a sense of numbers and helps us maintain funding.



 

The American Politics Research Workshop (Gov 3004) meets all academic year, Tuesdays, 12:00–2:00 PM, in CGIS K354. This workshop presents an opportunity for graduate students and Harvard faculty to present and receive feedback on their current research. The workshop highlights key theoretical and empirical findings from Harvard affiliates on topics related to American politics.

All interested Harvard affiliates are invited to attend. Lunch will be provided.



 

 



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