Join us for an interactive program about power, place, and the work of making change in our backyards.

Featuring framing remarks by Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver, FAICP, New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. Commissioner Silver is a leader in urban planning whose vision for parks and open spaces is rooted in his passion for neighborhood equity. The afternoon will also include breakout discussions facilitated by local ioby leaders and community activists. See below for a draft program schedule, and check back here for additional details in the coming days.

Program Overview:

2:00 - 3:00 Welcome, Opening Talk by Commissioner Silver, Q&A

3:00 - 4:30 Breakout Discussions on topics like "Preserving Black Spaces in Detroit," "The Complexity of Public Safety," and the idea that you "Shouldn't have to move to live in a nice neighborhood"

4:30 - 5:00 Networking and Idea Generation

5:00 - 6:00 Continued Mingling, Appetizers, and Drinks!

And - join our pre-convening walking tour:

To join the special pre-convening Jane’s Walk* of the Island View neighborhood, meet us at the Downtown Boxing Gym at 12:00. The tour will be led by Miguel Pope, President of the Mt. Elliot Business and Community Association (MEBCA), and Island View residents will share stories of their neighborhood. By walking and talking to the neighbors, you’ll be able to experience the physical space the way they do every day.

*Jane’s Walks, named after urban activist and writer Jane Jacobs, are free walks and discussions led by committed citizens sharing their knowledge about and love for a place.