Living Cities reposted this
From Darrick Hamilton imploring us to consider the real purpose of an economy founded on Black people as chattel capital, to an incredible tour of thriving Black communities in Memphis, to experiencing the passion and commitment to economic mobility of Joe Scantlebury and the other members of the Living Cities team, I'm still feeling inspired by the #LivingCitiesCollectiveAction conference in Memphis the last week of September. Thanks to everyone who made the event possible!
As we close out an inspiring #LivingCitiesCollectiveAction conference, we want to reflect on the powerful final remarks delivered by our CEO, Joseph Scantlebury. Joe emphasized why Memphis was chosen as the focus for our Conference—highlighting both the city’s unique challenges and immense potential. He reminded us of Memphis’ rich history of struggle for dignity, respect, and justice, drawing on the legacy of Dr. King’s support for sanitation workers in 1968. Just as the fight for livable wages, jobs, and freedom shaped the city’s past, our work today—funded by Truist —aims to build an inclusive and equitable economy for the future. We’re proud of the collective effort that went into making this conference a success, and grateful to our members like the Annie E. Casey Foundation Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, THE JPB FOUNDATION, The Kresge Foundation, Truist Bank and Foundation, Surdna Foundation, RWJF, CitiBank Foundation, DeutscheBank Foundation, MacArthur Foundation and all our members for their unwavering support. This work wouldn’t be possible without the financial, social, and intellectual capital provided by these incredible organizations. A heartfelt thank you to all attendees and participants. Together, we are building a brighter, more equitable future. Let’s keep this momentum going! 📸: Demarris Manns Photography #LivingCities #Memphis #InclusiveEconomy #EconomicEquity #CollectiveAction #CommunityBuilding #Gratitude #Collaboration