Discovering Detroit’s Grassroots Revolution: Creating the World We Want
Reflections from the 2024 Common Ground Gathering
Note: This is part of a series of posts related to storytelling the experiences of the 2024 Common Ground Gathering, held in Indianapolis (May 14–17) in celebration of The Learning Tree’s 10th anniversary.
As someone who recently attended a discussion featuring representatives from the James and Grace Lee Boggs Center, Freedom Dreams, Birwood House, and Feedom Freedom Growers, I was inspired by the mutual aid efforts transforming Detroit and how these efforts serve as a model for others during this time of social transformation. These organizations are not just about community service — they are about revolutionary change, empowerment, and creating sustainable and equitable futures. The Detroit contingent was one of the few Common Ground sessions that deliberately addressed the need for revolutionary power in grassroots work. Let me take you through the highlights of what I learned and experienced.
Vincent Harding: Creating America
Their session began with a video clip from Vincent Harding’s speech, Creating America. Rich Feldman, from the James and Grace Lee Boggs Center, used this video to argue that the clock of American racial capitalism is near zero and that we should be concerned about an opportunity to create a different society. For those who may not realize, Vincent Harding was an American historian, writer, and activist who also wrote Martin Luther King Jr.’s speech opposing the Vietnam War. The video serves as a reminder that we can demand and create the world we want to live in, and it is one I always recommend to those doing community development or community repair work:
Boggs Center: A Hub of Revolutionary Thought
The Boggs Center is a testament to the enduring legacy of James and Grace Lee Boggs, legendary activists whose work has shaped many social movements. During the event, Rich Feldman, a dedicated advocate, delved into how the Center focuses on the collapse of racial capitalism and the urgent need for new, human-centered systems. He stressed the importance of understanding our historical context to address systemic issues effectively.
Rich explained the difference between rebellion and revolution: while a rebellion is a legitimate response to societal injustices, a revolution involves a deeper transformation, projecting a vision of where we need to go and how we need to evolve as human beings. He emphasized that we are witnessing the end of racial capitalism, a system that has been in place for over 600 years.
“Imagining a new society is our most powerful tool for change,” Rich said as he encouraged the attentive crowd. “We must envision a future where justice, equity, and humanity are at the core, and then work collectively to bring that vision to life. Without this imagination, we remain stuck in the old systems that no longer serve us.”
The Center’s mission is to nurture future leaders who can envision and build a just and sustainable society, engaging the community through educational programs and open dialogue. The energy and commitment of the Boggs Center’s advocates made it evident that this is a place where revolutionary ideas are put into practice.
Freedom Dreams: Turning Vision into Reality
Coach Kellogg, the founder of Freedom Dreams, shared his incredible journey from being a high school basketball coach to becoming a community leader. Freedom Dreams is all about transforming vacant lots into vibrant community spaces, providing mentoring and leadership development to youth, and demonstrating how vision and determination can turn challenges into opportunities.
The initiative includes the James and Rose Robinson Community Center, a hub for local activities and services. Coach Kellogg emphasized the importance of youth engagement, highlighting how young people can learn valuable skills and take an active role in their community’s development. Freedom Dreams is more than a project; it’s a dream realized, grounded in the collective effort of its residents. Since the creation of Freedom Dreams, the group has been busy reclaiming land, building infrastructure, and providing education and cultural programming.
Birwood House: Fostering Leadership and Engagement
Kim Sherobbi, the force behind Birwood House, shared her inspiring story of returning to her neighborhood with a mission to foster community leadership and engagement. Influenced by her experiences with the Boggs Center, Kim started Birwood House in her own home to empower residents to take responsibility for their community.
One of Birwood House's standout programs is Community Lens, which provides a platform for middle schoolers and community members to learn about power dynamics, reflection, and organizing. This place-based learning ensures that education is relevant and directly tied to the community’s needs. Birwood House also hosts weekly intergenerational conversations, bridging gaps and building stronger, more connected communities.
“Investing in our youth is not just an option — it’s a necessity,” Kim told the audience. “Our commitment to young people shapes the future of our communities. By nurturing their potential and guiding them with care, we ensure a legacy of growth, strength, and unity.”
Feedom Freedom Growers: Cultivating Change Through Food
Ebony Williams from Feedom Freedom Growers (FFG) passionately spoke about the organization’s work in food sovereignty and community transformation. FFG is not just about teaching people to grow their own food—it’s about nurturing a sense of community and personal empowerment. Their motto, “Grow a garden, grow a community,” perfectly captures their holistic approach.
“Feedom Freedom Growers is more than just a garden,” Ebony said. “It’s a place where we plant the seeds of hope, nurture the spirit of community, and watch individuals transform. Here, we grow more than food; we grow dreams, leaders, and a better future for all.”
FFG’s initiatives include youth enrichment programs, community conversations, and cultural events, all designed to deepen the connection between people and their environment. The transformative impact of FFG’s work was evident in the stories shared by participants, many of whom have found a sense of purpose and leadership through their involvement.
Marvin’s Insight: The Power of Community Bonds
Marvin Massey, a dedicated community member and advocate currently working the Birwood House, brought a unique perspective to the discussion. Born and raised in Detroit, Marvin shared his experiences of working in various fields, including firefighting and healthcare, and his journey through personal challenges, including incarceration. His commitment to improving his community is evident in his active involvement with Birwood House and other local initiatives. Marvin provided important grounding by asking the question, “What does a happy world mean to you?”
Marvin emphasized the importance of taking responsibility for one’s community and the transformative power of nurturing strong, supportive relationships. “Happy, thriving children are the foundation of a strong community,” Marvin said. “Addressing mental health is not just important — it’s essential. In Detroit, we face deep, multifaceted challenges, but by supporting our youth and prioritizing mental well-being, we can build a brighter, more resilient future.”
His reflections on the need for happy, thriving children and the crucial role of mental health highlighted the deep, multifaceted challenges faced by many in Detroit. Marvin’s story is a testament to the resilience and potential of individuals dedicated to grassroots change.
Conclusion
Attending this discussion was a powerful reminder of the incredible work being done at the grassroots level in Detroit. The Boggs Center, Freedom Dreams, Birwood House, and Feedom Freedom Growers are not just organizations but movements dedicated to creating a more just and equitable world. They show others that a better world is possible and is obtainable when we collaborate and strive for justice-oriented communities.
Their stories, Marvin’s inspiring contributions, and Rich Feldman’s insightful explanations show that real change begins with individuals and communities coming together to envision and build a better future. For anyone unaware of these initiatives, I hope this glimpse into their work inspires you as much as it did me. Please visit each organization's website, subscribe to their newsletter, and get connected.
