Neighborhoods in Transition

Neighborhoods and cities go through many changes, particularly when it comes to racial and economic diversity. The last census showed that many of Grand Rapids' neighborhoods are evolving at a rapid pace. Some are becoming more diverse, some less, so the topic of neighborhoods transitioning is a timely one.

In partnership with the Grand Rapids Public Library and the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, Rapid Growth presents its November Speaker Series, "Neighborhoods in Transition." This will be an important discussion focused around the book Arc of Justice, a National Book Award winner by author Kevin Boyle, Nov. 9 at the Wealthy Theatre.

Earlier this year, the Michigan Humanities Council chose Arc of Justice: "A Saga of Race, Civil Rights, and Murder in the Jazz Age" as its statewide focus for 2011. Over 150 partner organizations are taking part in this statewide "conversation" about Michigan, its troubled history with racism, and how it has effected our economy and Michigan neighborhoods.

We'll talk about topics like:

Gentrification: the good and bad sides
Maintaining the urban fabric of neighborhoods
Racial and economic diversity of neighborhoods
What is happening on the ground in Grand Rapids' neighborhoods, and how are they reflecting the historic character of the neighborhoods

The panel discussion will include:

Nancy Haynes, Fair Housing Center of West Michigan
Dottie Clune, Neighborhood Revitalization Advocate
Amishia Harijan, a recent Detroit expatriate and Wealthy Street resident
Darel Ross, LINC Economic Development
Rebecca Smith Hoffman, Historian, Past Perfect
Carlos Sanchez, West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

And a special guest appearance by Jim Tischler of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority.

Moderated by Beth Byron, retired assistant planner for the city of GR.

Event begins at 6 p.m., is free and open to the public. Doors open at 5:30.

It's our last speaker series event of 2011, so please RSVP here.

For more info on the book Arc of Justice.