How Community Ownership Transformed a Neighborhood

Land and Justice: A Conversation with Tsedey Betru

In this episode, Paul Bauknight welcomes Tsedey Betru [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tsedey-betru/], the director of Just Communities [https://justcommunities.info/]. They discuss Tsedey's journey from Ethiopia to Memphis, her experiences with race, and her career in urban planning. The conversation delves into the evolution of Just Communities, focusing on racial equity and climate resilience.  They also explore challenges in community planning, the impact of political climates on their work, and the importance of community involvement in development projects. The episode concludes with reflections on self-determination and empowerment within communities.

Balancing Community and Neighborhood Development – with Alexa Bush

In this conversation, Paul Bauknight speaks with Alexa Bush, the former Planning Director for the City of Detroit, about the rich history of Detroit, the challenges and opportunities in community and neighborhood development, and the importance of equity and inclusion in urban planning.  They discuss the I-375 project aimed at reconnecting communities, the Fitzgerald neighborhood as a case study in recovery, and the role of philanthropy in supporting urban development. The conversation also touches on the need for diversity in the design profession and the importance of building trust with residents to create effective and equitable urban spaces.

From Infrastructure to Joy: How Cultural Spaces Transform Neighborhoods

In this conversation, Scott Kratz, CEO of Building Bridges Across the River, discusses the 11th Street Bridge Park project, emphasizing the importance of spatial justice, community engagement, and addressing gentrification. He shares insights on building trust within the community, navigating equity in a politically charged environment, and measuring the success of community-driven initiatives. The conversation highlights the project's commitment to creating a space that fosters joy and connection among diverse residents, with construction set to begin soon.

Landscape Architecture Can Lead the Way in Environmental Justice and Community Power

Kofi Boone, a visionary landscape architect, joins Paul Bauknight on this episode of My Black Space to discuss the transformative power of landscape architecture in advancing social and environmental justice. Boone shares his insights on how landscape design can be a tool for equity, community wealth, and healing, particularly in marginalized Black and Indigenous communities. Major points include Boone's journey from Detroit to becoming a leader in environmental justice, the role of community-led projects in fostering resilience and economic opportunity, and innovative strategies like land back movements and Black land banks. Boone emphasizes the importance of shifting power from the elite to the community, creating spaces where marginalized peoples can thrive and reclaim their cultural heritage. Listen now if you're interested in how landscape architecture can serve as a catalyst for justice and how collective strength, cultural resilience, and land stewardship can lead the way to a more equitable and sustainable future.

How a Black-Owned Theater in Utah Became a Beacon for Community Resilience

Discover the powerful intersection of community, art, and politics with Alicia Washington, founder of Utah's only Black-owned theater (Good Company Theater [https://goodcotheatre.com/]) and a city council member. In a town with less than 2% Black residents, Alicia is redefining leadership through her commitment to community and justice. This episode explores her journey from student to leader, highlighting her theater's role in producing works by and about people of color as a catalyst for social change. Alicia shares insights into overcoming challenges like funding and representation, while addressing systemic bias and protecting immigrant communities. Her story is a blueprint for community-driven transformation, inspiring artists, activists, and leaders to leverage creativity for equitable change. Tune in to be inspired by Alicia's call to action: community, creativity, and courage are the keys to authentic progress.