9 Stereotypes About Cleveland That Need To Be Put To Rest Right Now
By Nikki Rhoades|Published July 10, 2018
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
Every big city faces discrimination in some way. Whether it is associated with a state of uncleanliness or high crime, many incorrect stereotypes are given to large metropolitan areas around the county simply because it is a big city. Cleveland is no exception, as even our beloved best location in the nation cannot escape a bit of a bad reputation. Here are a few negative associations you’ve likely heard when you tell people that you are from Cleveland – and why they need to to be put to rest.
Sure, Cleveland has hit some rough patches in its history. In fact, the Cuyahoga River Fire of 1969 simultaneously gave Cleveland a bad reputation while also helping solidify pollution laws on the national level. The reality is, however, that Cleveland has undergone incredible growth over the years and continues to improve on countless levels year by year.
Sure, Cleveland has skyscrapers. All cities do. When you take your eyes off of the skyline, however, you may notice a few incredible features around the city. From the flawlessly designed Venus statue to an incredibly large stamp, Cleveland is home to some truly unique icons.
New York City isn't the only cultural hub in the U.S. Cleveland, like many other large cities, has attracted a diverse population from all over the world, and they have helped shape the city's identity with the culture they bring with them. Today, one can visit places that celebrate culture in truly unique ways... places like AsiaTown, Little Italy, and the Cultural Gardens.
Any child that has grown up in a city will find ways to have a great time, just as children growing up in the countryside or the suburbs do. However, Cleveland offers wonders that are particularly attractive to children, ranging from the Children's Museum to seasonal attractions.
Cleveland is far from just streets and neon signs. The Cleveland Metroparks provide an incredible, untamed escape, and the surrounding suburbs are bursting with charm.
Ohioans may curse more than any other Americans (it's true), but we are incredible people at the core. Our melting pot of cultures may even make you forget that we're Midwesterners until you hear a spirited "ope" here and there.
If you disagree, I'd implore you to embark on some of the local road trips that you can uncover here. You'll come to find that our lovely city and the surrounding areas are overflowing with exciting attractions.
Lake Erie, like Cleveland, has earned quite the reputation over the years. However, its lakefront parks, festivals, and trails have shown the beauty and fun that the lake offers. And it goes without saying that Lake Erie sunsets are some of the loveliest in the world.
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9. There's not even anything exciting near Cleveland.
Though Cleveland is a lovely and wonderful city, some negative rumors have surrounded it throughout its history. Now that we Clevelanders have had the opportunity to put to rest some of the most negative stereotypes, we’d love to have you visit us! You’ll find that The Land is truly an incredible place to be.
Are there any other totally wrong Cleveland stereotypes you’d love to see fade away? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
