Initiate / Fund Project to Collect Oral Histories; Display in Midtown

Neighborhood Vision 2025

Be a Hub of Black History, Entrepreneurship and Celebration in Cleveland

Neighborhoods on Cleveland’s east side represent the African American experience in the history of the United States, but these stories are not well documented. Today, Black entrepreneurs and business owners face economic, sociocultural, and institutional barriers all linked to structural racism. MidTown’s location, economic momentum linked to the growing Innovation District, the strength of the local business ecosystem, and legacy as part of a Black entertainment district offer the opportunity to create a hub of Black art, music, and entrepreneurship among the ranks of Harlem and Atlanta.

Be a Hub of Black History, Entrepreneurship and Celebration in Cleveland

Action

Initiate / Fund Project to Collect Oral Histories; Display in Midtown

Stories of the African American experience in America are often unknown and poorly documented. MTC can be a champion for Black history by helping to initiate a project to collect oral histories in MidTown and find ways to integrate these stories into public spaces, exhibitions, and events.

Near-Term Actions

Partner with artists/organizations/schools with audio recording / interview skills to have them collect oral histories. Identify a venue for display. Research presentation and visual accompaniment options (website, podcast, physical listening booth, etc).

Type of Action

Organizing / Fundraising

Looking For

New Partners & Ideas

3F

Related Actions

Be a Hub of Black History, Entrepreneurship and Celebration in Cleveland

Draw Organizations, Researchers, Nonprofits, or Other Groups Amplifying Black History, Business, or Creativity, to Spaces in Midtown

Create programs for development and advancement of black businesses and entrepreneurs, and establish funds and grants for unique research initiatives. Provide opportunities for Black leaders to network and continue to advance economic prosperity.

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Designate East 66th St. as a Black Cultural District

Celebrate and preserve Black culture and history through the realization of the E 66th Street community-driven design process and implementation. Help raise this unique project to national attention.

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Identify ways focused marketing, expanding digital skills, wifi access, design, neighborhood culture, peer support infrastructure and transportation can better support Black businesses.