Weaving the Urban Fabric: A Look at Benton Harbor in Context January 29, 2004

Weaving The Urban Fabric: A Look At Benton Harbor In Context
6:00:00 PM
Location: Art & Architecture
Room Name/Number: 2104 Lecture Hall
Free Event

For more information please contact:
W. Jacarl Melton, (734) 764-1300

Sponsored by Urban Planning Student Association
The Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives, Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Urban and Regional Planning Program, and Department of Sociology

June 16th and 17th of 2003 were two terrible days in Benton Harbor, Michigan. The death of a black motorcyclist after a police chase sparked two days of civil unrest that left the city reeling while also placing state, as well as national, focus on its plight. This event will explore the human relations aspect of the difficulties facing Benton Harbor, a roughly 95% African American city, and St. Joseph, which is approximately 95% White, as they try to exist and thrive side by side despite their disparate circumstances. A panel comprised of community members from Benton Harbor and St. Joseph as well as academics and students who have visited the two cities will interact in an effort to understand and illuminate the steps necessary to achieve the underlying goal expressed through Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.`s actions – an improved society predicated on improved relations among people.