Inspired By A Legacy Of Striving For Change: The Role of Parks in Achieving the Beloved Community in Atlanta’s Historic Westside

Atlanta’s Historic Westside is a vibrant area steeped in a rich tradition of activism. From the late 19th century through the Civil Rights Movement and the present day, numerous Black leaders have tirelessly championed change and justice. Despite various adversities including violence, these champions have significantly influenced both the neighborhoods of the Westside and wider Atlanta, thereby shaping the nation.

The legacy of their unwavering dedication to foster equity and justice continues to serve as an inspiration for ongoing and future social justice initiatives. This vision of unity and equality was encapsulated by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in what he termed as “Beloved Community”.

Westside Future Fund and the Community Leaders

The Westside Future Fund (WFF), spearheaded by myself as President and CEO, along with the collaboration of numerous community leaders is devoted to revitalizing and enriching this cultural legacy. Notable leaders paving the way include Carrie Salvary, Rosario Hernandez, and Annie Moore.

Four relatively new green spaces, namely Kathryn Johnston Memorial Park, Rodney Cook Sr. Park, Mattie Freeland Park, and Lindsay Street Park have been championed by these women. Instrumental in breathing new life into Atlanta’s Westside, these parks are integral to the area’s ongoing development and community engagement while simultaneously meeting crucial needs for stormwater management and environmental sustainability.

Parks – An Essential Pillar Towards Community Restoration

Originating in Atlanta’s Eastside and subsequently moving to Decatur, I had the bounty of green spaces as a given until relocating to Vine City and immersing in the work of WFF. It was then that I became acutely aware of the stark impact of systemic inequity and disinvestment on Black communities in Atlanta’s Westside, notably in terms of green space accessibility.

Participation in the recent 35th annual Parks and Greenspace Conference provided opportunity for progressive dialogue with Carrie, Rosario, and Annie leading to a deeper understanding of their individual and collective intentions to cultivate Dr. King’s vision of the Beloved Community. This was particularly poignant, bearing in mind that neighborhoods served by WFF were home to nearly 50,000 residents during the 1950s and 60s.

In these preceding decades, these neighborhoods were a thriving community and were instrumental in unifying Black residents from diverse backgrounds. Efforts continue to instigate a renaissance in these communities, replicating the vibrancy they once radiated which serves as a tribute to the long lineage of leaders who once called these neighborhoods home.

Redefining the Role of Parks in Community Development

Sitting alongside these women leaders, I am inspired by the collective resolve to reestablish these parks as symbols of progress and hope. These communal green spaces stand as testament to the remarkable resilience of the community and their unwavering determination to create an inclusive future for Atlanta’s historic Westside.