AustinTalks (http://austintalks.org/tag/austin-coming-together/)
There are a number of programs available to Chicago and/or Cook County residents wanting to buy a home or repair the one they already own. Some of the programs will begin accepting applications in early 2021, so housing advocates urge West Side residents to start organizing their paperwork now.
The “Everyday Activists” project entails interviewing and taking photos of West Side heroes who are too often unheard and overlooked. Once the pandemic has subsided, organizers plan to hold two in-person exhibits – one in Austin and the other in Oak Park. Another project titled “Austin has the Mic” also aims to empower Austin residents to share their stories and help depict the community in a more authentic and positive light.
The event, held virtually and at the Kehrein Center for the Arts and presented by the Austin Renaissance Council, highlighted the importance of storytelling with panel discussions, poetry and musical guests. It prompted uncomfortable conversations, emphasizing the importance of Austin residents taking control of their narratives.
The Kehrein Center for the Arts will be hosting the event on Thursday, Nov. 5 to discuss systemic racism and the history of disinvestment in Austin. The symmposium will be held virtually from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Register now.
The 15th Policer District hosted a Zoom meeting last week, seeking community input on the district’s policing strategy for the upcoming year. Residents expressed a need for more transparency, and they want officers to work to build better relationships with the community.
A group of about a dozen youth created their own quality-of-life plan for Austin this summer, modeled after a similar plan being implemented by Austin Coming Together. The youth’s plan focuses on public safety, mental health and youth empowerment, and will be unveiled later this fall by the group Territory.
Three boxes of grains, produce and meat will be distributed per household from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13 at the corner of Leamington and Kinzie. You can walk or drive up.
Austin Coming Together in partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository will be distributing food from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 30, while Forty Acres Fresh Market will hold its weekly pop-up market at Austin Town Hall from 1 to 6 p.m.
The Austin Adams Block Club hosted the event last weekend. They planted rose bushes along Adams Street, ate barbecue from Smoky Zo’s and were visited by the mayor. Another community event is planned for this Saturday.
Walk-up testing is available June 23 and 24 for anyone wanting to be tested for the coronavirus. The testing site will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days at the Austin Health Center, 4814 W. Chicago Ave.