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Welcome to unBlocked Englewood

A Vision of Transformation

Overview

Join the Chicago Bungalow Association and acclaimed social justice artist Tonika Lewis Johnson on a transformative exploration, reshaping the story of a single Englewood block. With 22 vacant lots, 24 residential buildings, and around 75 residents, this initiative goes beyond revitalization – it's a reclaiming of history and a powerful statement on addressing historic racist injustices. 

 

unBlocked Englewood is not just a project; it's a living canvas that echoes the stories of those directly impacted by the dark legacy of racist land sale practices. Together, we are rewriting the narrative of disinvestment and addressing present-day issues rooted in the discriminatory housing policies of the 1950s and 60s. Our mission is clear: to showcase the transformative power that emerges when a community unites to heal and uplift.

 

Explore the journey with us on @unblockedenglewood and witness the evolution as we:

  1. Empower Block Residents: We're breaking the chains of neglect by providing direct access to home repair funding and technical support. A testament to our commitment, $410,800 has already been invested in home rehab projects, breathing new life into Englewood's historic structures.
     

  2. Unleash Creative Revitalization: In 2024, witness the magic as vacant lots are transformed into vibrant canvases of expression. Co-created with block residents and the Englewood Arts Collective, these arts-based physical improvements tell a story of resilience, innovation, and a brighter future.
     

  3. Ignite Public Engagement: Join the movement as we shed light on the impactful work taking place on the block. UnBlocked Englewood is not just about physical transformation; it's a call to action. Together, let's unravel the layers of historic injustice and pave the way for a more equitable future.

For a glimpse into the potential that emerges when a community comes together, follow our journey on social media and be a part of the transformative story unfolding at the heart of Englewood. Together, we are unBlocked Englewood – rewriting history, rebuilding communities, and redefining the future.​

Progress on the Block

Hear from Ms. Justine, block resident, about unBlocked Englewood

Hear from Ms. Justine, block resident, about unBlocked Englewood.

Join the Transformation

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unBlocked Englewood is supported by:

  • A $250,000 Together We Heal Creative Place grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events and the Mayor’s Office of Equity and Justice

  • A $120,000 Growing Household Wealth grant from the Chicago Community Trust

  • A $50,000 grant from the Terra Foundation for American Art, part of Art Design Chicago, a citywide collaboration that highlights the city’s artistic heritage and creative communities

  • Weatherization services leveraged with the Home Energy Savings program, in partnership with ComEd and Peoples Gas, providing customers with free home energy services and improvements

  • A donation from Zoro.com of outdoor power equipment to help maintain vacant lots and sidewalks year-round on the block


unBlocked Englewood is working to identify additional sources of funding to be allocated towards repair dollars necessary for remaining homes on the block as well as arts-based beautification for vacant lots.

More Info

Carla Bruni, Homeowner Navigator
Chicago Bungalow Association
cbruni@chicagobungalow.org

Tonika Lewis Johnson, Creator
Folded Map Chicago and Inequity for Sale
foldedmapchicago@gmail.com

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