{"id":14203,"date":"2024-11-07T21:43:24","date_gmt":"2024-11-07T21:43:24","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/?p=14203"},"modified":"2024-11-07T22:01:25","modified_gmt":"2024-11-07T22:01:25","slug":"revitalizing-communities-a-vision-for-hope-in-toledo","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/2024\/11\/07\/revitalizing-communities-a-vision-for-hope-in-toledo\/","title":{"rendered":"Revitalizing Communities: A Vision for Hope in Toledo"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Toledo Councilwomen Cerssandra McPherson and Brittany Jones with former Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

By Asia Nail<\/strong><\/em>
\nThe Truth Reporter<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

On October 18, 2024, an electrifying conversation unfolded between Robert Smith<\/strong>, founder of the African American Legacy Project<\/em><\/strong>, and former<\/strong> Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman<\/strong>, a proud Toledo native. This was more than just a discussion; it was a passionate call to action, igniting a shared vision for the future. They emphasized the vital importance of nurturing our communities\u2014especially our local artists, the Black community and our youth\u2014to pave the way for a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow for everyone. Their dialogue resonated with urgency and inspiration, reminding us all of the power we hold to effect real change.<\/p>\n

A Legacy of Change<\/strong><\/p>\n

Michael Coleman made history as Columbus\u2019s first African American mayor and served for an impressive 16 years. His roots trace back to Toledo, where he grew up with a vision of what could be. He often reflects on his childhood dreams of becoming an architect. \u201cI wanted to shape spaces that would bring people together,\u201d he shared during the interview. This passion for building, both literally and metaphorically, fueled his drive to make significant changes in Columbus.<\/p>\n

When Coleman took office, he inherited neighborhoods that were struggling. The King-Lincoln Bronzeville<\/em><\/strong> district, a historically significant area for the African American community, was once the vibrant heart of commerce, culture, and connection in Columbus during the 1930s, ’40s, and ’50s. However, the construction of Highway 71 cut off access, leading to isolation and a mass exodus of black residents during desegregation.<\/p>\n

Over the following decades, the population plummeted from 64,000 to just 16,000, leaving behind a landscape of abandoned buildings and overgrown lots. In this context, Coleman recognized the urgent need for revitalization: \u201cI can\u2019t be the first Black Mayor and not deal with this,\u201d he said to himself.<\/p>\n

“Initially I revitalized an area on Morris Rd. in this district by acquiring the former Northland Mall, which I ultimately demolished despite significant controversy,\u201d Coleman shares with Smith.<\/p>\n

\u201dI invested millions into the streetscape, developing the area and addressing the long-standing issue of disinvestment, thereby transforming the community for the better.”<\/p>\n

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Michael Coleman<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Power of Physical Space<\/strong><\/p>\n

Imagine a garden that has been neglected, its flowers wilted and its pathways overgrown. Coleman envisioned this garden blooming once again. He believed that transforming physical spaces could revive community spirit and reconnect people to their roots. A pivotal moment in this journey was the revitalization of\u00a0 Lincoln Theater<\/em><\/strong>, a historic venue that had long served as a gathering spot for the Black community.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Lincoln Theater was where our community went when they couldn\u2019t go downtown,\u201d Coleman explained. Legends like Duke Ellington and Sammy Davis Jr. graced its stage, making it a cornerstone of cultural life. But by the time Coleman took action, the theater was on the brink of being demolished. \u201cI had a gut feeling that even with all the damage, I could change this,\u201d he recalled. Despite the pushback and controversy, Coleman purchased the theater with city funds and committed to its restoration.<\/p>\n

This decision sparked not just renewed interest in the theater, but a broader revitalization of the surrounding area. After the Lincoln Theater was transformed into a thriving cultural hub, it attracted thousands of visitors and new residents to the downtown area. However, Coleman’s vision extended far beyond the theater; laying the groundwork for a complete resurgence of economic opportunities and community pride in the region.<\/p>\n

Building Together<\/strong><\/p>\n

As Coleman spoke about his vision, he emphasized the importance of community involvement. \u201cYou just have to do it and try to bring folks along in the process,\u201d he said. It wasn\u2019t enough to have a plan; he had to sell that vision to the people living in the neighborhoods, to those outside of them, and to the business community. \u201cI was the biggest salesperson for my vision,\u201d he quipped, illustrating the necessity of belief and enthusiasm in leadership.<\/p>\n

One of the key elements to his success was the idea of collaboration. Coleman invited input from diverse people within the community, integrating their ideas into the revitalization plans. \u201cHave everyone paint on a blank canvas with different pots of paint,\u201d he suggested. By involving the community in the planning process, he ensured that the revitalization efforts reflected their desires and needs. In the end, the result was a masterpiece\u2014an enriched community where everyone had a vested interest in success.<\/p>\n

The Importance of Youth and Arts<\/strong><\/p>\n

Coleman\u2019s commitment to revitalization extended beyond buildings and businesses; he believed in empowering young people and supporting the arts. \u201cWhat\u2019s going to make young people want to come to the City of Toledo?\u201d he asked. His answer was simple: ask them. When Coleman engaged local youth, he discovered what they truly wanted in their city\u2014opportunities for creativity, connection, and growth.<\/p>\n

In Columbus, Coleman collaborated with The Ohio State University to bring students into the city\u2019s culture. They hosted events at local arenas, complete with music, fine dining, art, and activities designed to showcase what Columbus had to offer. \u201cThe kids loved it!\u201d he beamed, noting that this engagement fostered a sense of belonging among students. Over time, this effort paid off, as many students chose to stay in the city after graduation, starting businesses and contributing to their communities.<\/p>\n

Art, too, became a vital component of Coleman\u2019s vision. He understood that subsidizing artists in concentrated areas of the city could lead to vibrant cultural districts, attracting more people and fostering economic growth. \u201cAs for Toledo, watch your art district explode with new opportunities if you implement these strategies,\u201d he said, envisioning a future where creativity fuels revitalization and transforms areas into bustling hubs of innovation and expression. By investing in the arts, he believes, most cities can harness the power of culture to drive progress and bring people together.<\/p>\n

Economic Empowerment<\/strong><\/p>\n

Central to Coleman\u2019s vision was economic empowerment. He recognized the significant wealth gap faced by Black and Hispanic communities, often stemming from a lack of access to banking services. To address this, he and other leaders founded the Adelphi Bank<\/em><\/strong>, the first Black-owned bank in Ohio. \u201cIt\u2019s important as a community that we embrace black-owned banks and do everything we can to help them succeed,\u201d he stated, underscoring the need for financial institutions that truly represent and serve every community.<\/p>\n

The creation of Adelphi Bank was not just about providing loans; it was about restoring financial dignity and fostering entrepreneurship within the Black community. Coleman\u2019s vision for the bank was rooted in the belief that when individuals have access to resources, they can create their own opportunities, invest in their communities, and build generational wealth.<\/p>\n

Learning from History<\/strong><\/p>\n

Coleman\u2019s reflections were deeply intertwined with the history of the Black community in Toledo and beyond. He lamented the loss of historical businesses and cultural landmarks in our hometown, recalling how Dorr Street once buzzed with life. \u201cI didn\u2019t see a single business that I remember, not one,\u201d he said, a sense of sadness in his voice. \u201cToledo destroyed its Black heritage. It\u2019s time to re-build.\u201d<\/p>\n

He emphasized the importance of remembering the past as a guide for the future. \u201cYou don\u2019t know where you\u2019re going until you first understand where you come from,\u201d he advised. This understanding is crucial for the Black community in Toledo as they navigate their path forward. \u201cIf Black people in Toledo want to restore their heritage, they must speak up and work together,\u201d he urged, reinforcing the need for unity and collective action.<\/p>\n

A Brighter Future<\/strong><\/p>\n

As the interview wrapped up, Coleman\u2019s hopeful vision for Toledo shone brightly. He believes that by nurturing artists, supporting the Black community, and engaging youth, the city can become a thriving landscape of culture, commerce, and connection once again. \u201cIn ten years, we will see an urban transformation,\u201d he predicted, his eyes sparkling with optimism.<\/p>\n

Toledo shares many similarities with Columbus, including a strong educational presence with institutions like the University of Toledo. Coleman sees immense potential in identifying and engaging young people, ensuring they feel valued and invested in their city. \u201cWhen young people stay in the city, they\u2019re going to start businesses, start families, and create jobs,\u201d he explained, painting a picture of a vibrant future.<\/p>\n

The Canvas of Community<\/strong><\/p>\n

The conversation with past Mayor Michael Coleman was not just about one man\u2019s legacy; it was a broader call to action for cities everywhere. By fostering collaboration, supporting the arts, and empowering communities, we can create environments where every voice matters and every dream has the potential to flourish.<\/p>\n

In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, Coleman\u2019s story reminds us that change is possible. Just as an artist approaches a blank canvas, we all have the power to contribute to the masterpiece that is our community. With hope, determination, and a commitment to unity, we can nurture our cities and create spaces where everyone can thrive.<\/p>\n

Watch the AALP Interview w\/Mayor Michael Coleman <\/em>here<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

By Asia Nail The Truth Reporter On October 18, 2024, an electrifying conversation unfolded between Robert Smith, founder of the African American Legacy Project, and former Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman, a proud Toledo native. This was more than just a discussion; it was a passionate call to action, igniting a shared vision for the future. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":14234,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[250,17],"tags":[],"wf_post_folders":[261,23],"class_list":["post-14203","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-local-news","category-local"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14203","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14203"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14203\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14236,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14203\/revisions\/14236"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/14234"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14203"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14203"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14203"},{"taxonomy":"wf_post_folders","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wordpress.thetruthtoledo.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/wf_post_folders?post=14203"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}