4833 rph — Explore and Discuss

Naomi Davis and Martha Boyd from the group C/CURE (Chicago/Calumet Underground Railroad Effort) shared their thoughts on Monday about historical preservation, sustainability and urban development. C/CURE’s mission is to aid the development of the Riverdale area (located at the southernmost city limit on the Calumet River) by using a historical Underground Railroad site, the John Ton farm, as a basis for boosting tourism initiatives and economic growth. The organization wants to develop the area holistically with consideration for the area’s social and cultural diversity while keeping in mind sustainability and green initiatives. These initiatives require a great deal of support, both politically and financially, and C/CURE is in the process of spreading the word to both politicians and the general population. Great conversation arose from the talk, and centered on development trends in the city of Chicago and the importance Underground Railroad heritage. Naomi and Martha are not artists per se, but their work has great cultural significance. In the end the question arose “How can artists play a part in this effort?”