In the heart of Detroit's East Canfield Village, where the shadows of environmental injustice loom large, a beacon of hope emerges. Jordan Weber's Detroit Remediation Forest stands as a testament to resilience and a revolutionary initiative tackling the urgent issue of air pollution while fostering education in environmental justice. This groundbreaking project, spanning a square-acre pocket of forest, is set to redefine the intersection of art, activism, and environmentalism. At the forefront of this visionary space is a striking mirrored-aluminum sculptural arch, shaped like a crown, symbolizing a welcoming embrace to all who enter. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this arch serves as a gateway to transformation, signaling a departure from the status quo towards a greener, healthier future. Within the forest's embrace lie 200 conifer trees strategically positioned to form a dense canopy, meticulously designed to absorb toxic particulate matter emitted from a nearby automotive factory. This innovative approach not only mitigates air pollution but also creates a sanctuary of clean air amidst the polluted surroundings. The genesis of the Detroit Remediation Forest can be traced back to the expansion of the Stellantis auto plant in 2019, which exacerbated the environmental injustices faced by the predominantly black residents of East Canfield Village. While affluent, predominantly white neighborhoods struck deals to reduce emissions, the health of East Canfield residents suffered, with children experiencing asthma rates five times the national average. Jordan Weber's project stands as a potent response to this disparity, reclaiming space for the community and amplifying their voices in the fight for environmental justice. Stepping beneath an archway inspired by West African architecture, visitors find themselves in a clearing within the woods, surrounded by a forum with stepped seating. Here, amidst the whispers of rustling leaves and the gentle sway of branches, students from the nearby Barack Obama Academy engage in Environmental Justice classroom activities. This open-air classroom becomes a hub of learning, exploration, and empowerment, where the next generation of environmental stewards envision greener futures and sustainable solutions. The unveiling of the Detroit Remediation Forest on Saturday, May 18, 2024, marks a significant milestone in the intersection of art and activism. Jordan Weber's vision not only transforms physical landscapes but also ignites conversations, inspires action, and fosters community resilience. Moreover, Jordan Weber's recognition as a VIA Art Fund 2023 Grantee underscores the profound impact of his work on a broader scale. Through initiatives like VIA Art Fund's grantmaking, artists like Weber are empowered to realize ambitious projects that transcend traditional boundaries and captivate diverse audiences. This partnership not only celebrates creativity but also catalyzes meaningful change in communities across cities like Detroit, Los Angeles, New York, Venice, and beyond.
Through his work, Weber confronts the concept of environmental apartheid, shining a light on the unequal distribution of environmental burdens and benefits along racial and socioeconomic lines. By engaging directly with affected communities, he amplifies their voices and empowers them to advocate for change. As we embark on this journey with Jordan Weber, we are reminded of the transformative power of art and activism. Together, we can create spaces that not only reflect our values but also inspire us to strive for a more just and sustainable world. Jordan Weber's Detroit Remediation Forest stands as a testament to the possibilities that arise when creativity, compassion, and courage converge, offering a glimpse of the brighter, cleaner future we all deserve.
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In the heart of our community lay a beloved landmark – Jack's 1 Stop. For years, Jack's had been more than just a building; it had been a gathering place, a symbol of unity, and a repository of cherished memories. That's why we we Are excited to introduce "Jack's Is Back.” This initiative isn’t just about renovating a structure; it’s about preserving a piece of our community's history and ensuring that Jack's continues to be a source of pride and connection for generations to come. Jack’s is poised to be re-opened signifying a huge step towards filling the need for a community space and home to local Black owned and operated businesses. Exciting plans are in motion to breathe new life into the historic “Jack’s” building and transform it into a vibrant neighborhood hub. This renovation project pays homage to the former owner’s impact in the community and sets the stage for a fresh, community-focused space. Canfield Consortium is committed to bringing amenities back into the neighborhood, bridging the gap between what residents need but leave the neighborhood to find. Renovating the building transcends the concept of blight remediation; it’s about empowering the community, preserving its legacy, enhancing the present, and forging a path to the future. This renovation will create a neighborhood hub where residents can shop, connect, and foster a sense of community. Phase 1 includes -deconstruction -building stabilization Phase 2 includes
-installation of new heating and cooling system -upgrade electric wiring -create a welcoming coffee shop build out -Prepare the remaining units with an adaptable white box design As we embark on this journey to restore Jack's, we're guided by a sense of purpose and community spirit. Together, let's ensure that Jack's remains a symbol of pride and connection for our neighborhood. Join us and together, let's write the next chapter in Jack's story. How you can help Your support is crucial to the success of our mission. Consider contributing to "Jack's Is Back" by visiting jacksisback.com, where you can find more information and donate. Every contribution brings us one step closer to preserving Jacks' legacy. Monthly Community Meetings: Fostering Unity and ActionEvery fourth Thursday of the month, East Canfield residents gather for Canfield Consortium's monthly community meetings. Held at the Barack Obama Leadership Academy located at 10800 E. Canfield, Detroit, MI 48214, these meetings serve as a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and action. Residents from all walks of life come together to address pressing issues facing their community—from advocating for environmental justice to promoting economic opportunity. These gatherings are a testament to the power of collective action and community engagement. Calling All Passionate VolunteersCanfield Consortium thrives on the dedication and enthusiasm of its volunteers. If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and make a difference in the East Canfield neighborhood, we welcome you with open arms. Whether you're a seasoned activist or someone looking to get involved for the first time, there's a place for you. Reach out to us at info@canfieldst.org to get started. Celebrating AchievementsWe are honored to announce that Canfield Consortium has been awarded the America Walks 2023 Community Change Grant, a testament to our commitment to creating walkable, accessible communities where everyone can thrive. Jordan Weber's Detroit Remediation Forest: A Beacon of Environmental JusticeLocated in a Detroit neighborhood plagued by environmental injustice, Jordan Weber's Detroit Remediation Forest is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing the pressing issue of air pollution while serving as an educational hub for environmental justice. Spanning a square-acre pocket forest, this innovative project functions as both an air detoxification zone and an open-air classroom, providing a transformative space. At the entrance of the forest stands a crown-shaped mirrored-aluminum sculptural arch, a symbolic marker welcoming visitors into this visionary space. Inside, the project includes the transplantation of 200 conifer trees, strategically arranged to create a dense canopy that maximizes the absorption of toxic particulate matter (PM) emitted from a nearby automotive factory. The expansion of the Stellantis auto plant in the majority-Black Detroit neighborhood of East Canfield in 2019 underscored the environmental injustices faced by the community. While striking deals to reduce emissions in predominantly white neighborhoods, the detrimental effects of pollution on East Canfield residents' health became evident, with children experiencing asthma at five times the national rate. An archway inspired by West African architecture guides visitors into a clearing within the woods, where a forum with stepped seating awaits. Encircled by a bridge beneath the forest canopy, this space serves as a clean-air oasis amidst the heavily polluted surroundings. Here, students from the nearby Barack Obama Academy engage in Environmental Justice classroom activities, exploring sustainable solutions and envisioning greener futures. The unveiling will take place Saturday, May 18, 2024. We are thrilled to announce that Jordan Weber has been selected as a VIA Art Fund 2023 Grantee. Through VIA Art Fund's grantmaking initiative, some of the most exciting practitioners, including Jordan Weber, will bring their creative visions to life in public gardens, pavilions, piers, planetariums, and other spaces across cities like Detroit, Los Angeles, New York, Venice, and beyond. This grant provides an incredible opportunity for artists to realize ambitious projects in unconventional settings, fostering engagement with contemporary art and encouraging experimentation beyond traditional cultural boundaries. Jordan Weber's inclusion in this esteemed cohort speaks volumes about the innovative nature of his work and its potential to captivate diverse audiences. We are proud to partner with Jordan Weber as he continues to push the boundaries of art and activism, creating meaningful experiences that resonate with communities near and far. Restoring Community Icons: The Campaign to Rebuild Jack's 1 StopAs part of our ongoing efforts to revitalize the East Canfield neighborhood, Canfield Consortium is embarking on a campaign to rebuild Jack's 1 Stop, a former social hub of the community. Once a bustling gathering place where residents came for a range of needs, Jack's 1 Stop will be transformed into a welcoming, accessible, and intergenerational space to enjoy. We are seeking to secure $250,000 in funding to support the critical stabilization and renovation of key building sections, modernize wiring and lighting systems, and acquire the necessary equipment. With your support, we can restore this neighborhood icon and create a vibrant gathering space that will serve as a beacon of hope for generations to come. Donate today: https://jacksisback.com/ Join Us in Building a Better FutureAs we embark on this journey of transformation and renewal, we invite you to join us. Whether you're an artist, activist, or simply someone who cares deeply about your community, there's a place for you here. Together, we can create a future where justice, equity, and sustainability are not just ideals but lived realities.
In solidarity, Canfield Consortium Canfield Consortium in partnership with Sidewalk Detroit presented Detroit’s favorite street art festival, Sidewalk Festival 2023! The festival highlighted the work of over a dozen local artists (including works by Kresge Artists Fellows and Gild Award Recipients).
Artists immersed themselves the spacious East Canfield Art Park (4405 Lemay) surrounded by luscious flower gardens and community lots which were transformed into a platform for powerful performances, environmental and site-specific installations and all ages playscape. The art park and surrounding areas were transformed into three activity areas that kept residents engaged throughout the event. Sidewalk Detroit practices a change-making approach to creative city-building that combines the vision of residents, strategy, and innovative artistic ideation to create engaging spaces that improve and celebrate life in communities across the city. ART PARK STAGE: Allan Colding* Lufuki and Divine Providence Lis Chere Thomas* Emily Rogers* & My Detroit Players Shua Group Sophiyah E. & The S.O.L Tribe BRYCE DETROIT FOREST LOT: Ali; 12:41; Adrienne (workshop) Kashira Dowridge LEMAY STREET: The Finding Freedom: Cyanotype Workshop Drizzy Dria Detroit Opera Sofa Stories* Layali Ali + AME Kim and Rhoda Theus of Canfield Consortium shared: “We are delighted to be working with Sidewalk Detroit to bring the highly anticipated Sidewalk Festival to East Canfield Village. This collaborative effort aims to expand the idea of community development and the use of spaces to engage our community for positive outcomes— socially, economically, and culturally. As an organization, we have successfully activated over 12 dormant land parcels in our neighborhood, and the transformation taking place in our community is truly inspiring. The Sidewalk Festival will serve as a vibrant celebration of Detroit neighborhoods, highlighting the resilience and spirit of our very own East Canfield Village.” During National Volunteer week we were fortunate to partner with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity to plant trees, shrubs and flowers in the pilot lots of the Canfield Connect. Their time, energy and passion of community improvement strengthened the fabric of our community.
Canfield Consortium thanks our volunteer partners for giving back and contributing to make our communities stronger and more vibrant. We couldn’t do the work we do without the dedication and work of volunteers. |