Context & Conversation: “Who Defines ‘Community Investment’?”

Providence’s West End is home to gems of historic architecture, some newly restored, others in need of care; entrepreneurs from many countries running all kinds of small businesses; a microbrewery; subsidized housing developments; vibrant but underfunded community centers; a well-used library; multiple parks; expensive restaurants; street produce trucks; backyard gardens; even the occasional chicken. It’s also home to the tension that results in a tight housing market when new investment follows years of disinvestment, and longtime residents are priced out of their “improved” neighborhoods.

Join us for a conversation with United Way of RI Executive Vice President, Director of Community Investment Angela Ankoma; Brown University Assistant Professor of Anthropology and Urban Studies Rebecca Carter, RI Department of Health Artist-In-Residence Jazzmen Lee Johnson, and others about what constitutes “community,” how values inform our definition of “investment,” and who gets to decide which investments will yield the greatest return in their communities.

Date: Monday, February 10, 6 pm
Location: West Elmwood Housing Development Corporation’s Sankofa Community Room
70 Westfield Street, Providence, RI 02907
Cost: Free and open to the public! Please register for this event here.

Inspired by August Wilson’s Radio Golf, on stage at Trinity Rep January 30 through March 1, 2020.You do not need to see the play to enjoy the Context & Conversation event.

Context & Conversation is co-produced and co-presented by Trinity Repertory Company and Providence Public Library along with community partners specially chosen for each production. Learn more about the Context & Conversation series here.