Sustainable Ann Arbor Forum: Race and Class Equity in Washtenaw County

The City of Ann Arbor and the Ann Arbor District Library will host the eighth annual Sustainable Ann Arbor series in January-April 2019. A think tank of local stakeholders, including community organizations, local government staff, and businesses will join members of the public to discuss local sustainability efforts and challenges in our community.  The Forums will be held from 7-8:30 pm at the Ann Arbor District Main Library in downtown Ann Arbor (343 S. 5th Ave). 

Ann Arbor is the eighth most socioeconomically segregated metro area in the U.S.; the second most segregated city in the nation in service class segregation; and the fifth in working class segregation. In 2010, Census data shows white residents accounted for 73% of Ann Arbor's population, just under Michigan's average of 79%, while African American residents accounted for just 8% of residents—nearly half of the state average of 14%. Ypsilanti, on the other hand, is made up of 62% white residents and 29% African American residents: a dramatic imbalance for two closely tied cities. Housing is a social determinant of health so where you live matters. Join local experts as we delve into the issues and opportunities surrounding race and class equity throughout Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County.

Speakers: 

• Dr. Tony Reames (Assistant Professor, School for Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan), 
• Jen Hall (Executive Director, Housing Commission, City of Ann Arbor)
• Alma Wheeler Smith (Former Michigan State Representative and Senator)
• Teresa Gillotti (Director, Washtenaw County Office of Community and Economic Development)