The Black Midwest Symposium
The Black Midwest Initiative hosts a biennial symposium that features artists, activists, academics, and other community-involved people to discuss issues related to Black life in the Midwest. Past symposiums have been hosted in Minneapolis and Detroit.
Why Attend The Black Midwest Symposium?
- Engage with visionary leaders and thinkers in the fields of urban planning, community development, and environmental sustainability.
- Discover successful case studies of adaptive reuse and how these models can ignite change in our own backyards.
- Network with like-minded individuals passionate about community revitalization and sustainable development.
- Participate in workshops and panel discussions that will equip you with the knowledge and tools to champion adaptive reuse projects within your communities.
Adaptive Reuse: Reimagining Black Futures in the Midwest Heading link
This past October, The Black Midwest Initiative explored the vibrant intersections of history, academia, art, and community at our Third Biennial Black Midwest Symposium. This year’s symposium was hosted at the Dayton Metro Library, a pillar in Dayton’s Black community, and unfolded under the illuminating theme of “Adaptive Reuse.” Adaptive Reuse was more than just a theme or concept at the Third Biennial Black Midwest Symposium—it was a call to action for Black communities and allies across the Midwest.
Dayton, a city with a rich industrial heritage, stands at the forefront of this movement. In collaboration with local thinkers, creators, activists, and community members, the Third Biennial Black Midwest Symposium harnessed Dayton’s pioneering spirit to engage in critical and empowering dialogues. Together, we explored how Black communities across the Midwest are making sense of and navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by adaptive reuse.
Photos, videos, and more items from this year’s symposium will be available on the BMI website soon! Please check for updates.