Systemic

Many of you have heard of Vinegar Hill: the thriving black neighborhood that Charlottesville demolished in 1965 as part of an “urban renewal project,” the more acceptable version of “seizure of black-owned property.” The bulldozing of Charlottesville’s largest black neighborhood was the most tangible example of the intentional disintegration of the flourishing black community in our town.

But it wasn’t the only one. And years later, we continue to contend with the legacies, and endeavor to answer the question of how to rebuild.

COVID-19 has been a spotlight for many of the ongoing systemic issues in our community. We’ve seen glaring disparities in housing, healthcare, and economic mobility. But, make no mistake, COVID-19 did not create income disparity in Charlottesville. Though Black Americans and other nonwhites have seen increased opportunities for professional advancement since the civil rights movement, and businesses are championing equity, the chasm between white and minority wealth remains, and is growing by the day.

Moderated by UVA’s Dr. Ebony Hilton, panelists Yolunda Harrell, New Hill Development Corporation; Sarad Davenport, TMI Consulting; Ester Manheimer, Mayor of Asheville, NC; and Julie Mayfield, City Councilor of Asheville, NC will frame our discussion, explain local history and action, and describe the path that Asheville, NC has embarked on.

Although we cannot be together in person this year, our guests will still gather around a (virtual) table to share a meal, get to know new people, and learn about different experiences and perspectives. 

Breakout table conversations hosted by local community leaders.
Complimentary take-out dinners prepared by Pearl Island for you to enjoy at home during our Table
*must be picked up in advance; instructions will be provided to attendees

Click here to R.S.V.P. by October 21