What can the concept of ‘the commons’ help us understand about the relationship between individual liberties and the communal good, the history of Chicago itself, and our sometimes contradictory notions of environmental stewardship?

On Saturday, November 11th, join us for an interdisciplinary symposium on land justice and the commons. Topics include an Indigenous history of Chicago; the ideological underpinnings of the idea of ‘the commons’ and its application in Europe and the US; how urban farms become microcosms for new social worlds; and how civil rights law can combat environmental racism.

Speakers include: Daniel Loick, Associate Professor in Political and Social Philosophy at the University of Amsterdam; Juanita Irizarry, Executive Director of Friends of the Parks; Nyabweza “Bweza” Itaagi, lead steward of the Englewood Nature Trail, Anthony Tamez-Pochel, co-president of Chi Nations Youth Council, and others.

The event will conclude with a plant and seed swap, and is free and open to the public. Please register in advance to help us plan accordingly.

*On Tuesday, November 14th, at 6pm CST, catch our virtual keynote, ‘A Brief History of Indigenous Chicago,’ with Dr. John N. Low. Separate Zoom registration info coming soon!*

This symposium is organized in partnership with the Chicago Architecture Biennial and Bubbly Dynamics LLC, owner and operator of the former meatpacking facility now known as The Plant. Click here to learn more about the event.