You’ve heard a lot recently about gentrification and displacement, especially since we have the Community Benefits Agreement in the works at RiverChase. You might be tempted to think this is an “East Nashville problem,” or a “Somebody Else” problem. It’s NOT someone else’s problem.
What did we learn? The majority of residents want affordable housing, good jobs that prioritize locals, divers, inclusive spaces, and local businesses instead of mega corporations. Everyone wants more real community engagement!
This past year, SUN became the organization it was always meant to be. I can’t say “we’ve done more than I ever could have imagined,” because this is what I was imagining! Multiple battles fought on multiple fronts – all for the sake of our city’s people.
Our new report finds that Amazon’s housing fund could exacerbate inequality and not reach families in Nashville who need it most.
Ready to change the way decisions are made and development happens in our city? Then apply today to become a SUN Organizer.
We are seeing some results from the Community Benefits Agreement — we’ve got JOBS!
We request that the city, the design firm, and all others involved work to center meaningful community engagement and racial and economic equity in the planning study, rezoning, and redevelopment of the East Bank. The city must actively work to improve its planning and investment to achieve equity and address past injustices.
Statement from Stand Up Nashville Executive director Odessa Kelly on running for Congress
Our most important mission in taking on this survey is making sure that communities are at the center of decision-making. The residents we talked to near the Fairgrounds want to be heard in the process. It takes time to talk to neighborhoods—but it was time well spent.
By attempting to throw a wrench into municipal action over safety standards, the State Legislature has instead cast a shadow of doubt over municipalities’ ability to establish basic contractor qualifications, engage in veteran hiring preferences, and other elements of the procurement process that has been a standard part of local contracting for decades.
We will tirelessly and courageously fight injustice and organize our community to take action.
