Community leadership and kinship was a value I gathered from last semester in the Chester Semester course. Through our discussions and readings, I saw how deeply history, policy, and grassroots efforts shape the city’s present and future. We had many amazing speakers present on their organizations and advocacy efforts, highlighting the power of collective action. We read about Chester’s struggles with environmental racism, economic disinvestment, and political challenges, gaining a clearer understanding of how historical injustices still shape the city’s landscape today.
Recently, as we prepared for the Women's Change Makers event on 03/29, I have been learning bits and pieces of how much these women have done for Chester and as a whole representing black feminism. I have also continued working on the Chester Black History Tour which has helped me learn about all of these significant spots located in Chester and what they mean to so many people. I have had others reachout to add different elements to the website too which creates a collective support.
If I were speaking with Mayor Stefan Roots and the city council about Chester’s future, I would emphasize the importance of continuing to invest in community-led solutions. Chester has a strong foundation of activism and a resilient community that deserves resources and policies that reflect their needs.