What’s happening: The
Allen County Public Library is hosting a traveling, interactive exhibit titled “Unwelcomed: A Fair Housing History of Sales & Lending Discrimination.”
Through historic documents, news stories and interactive QR codes, the exhibit walks participants through the historical and systemic barriers that have impacted and shaped today’s neighborhoods. It covers the use of redlining, racial covenants, steering, neighborhood intimidation, and other forms of housing discrimination. It also explores forms of modern-day housing discrimination in sales and lending.
According to the press release, the exhibit’s dates were chosen to coincide with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and throughout Black History Month to draw attention to the intersections of housing discrimination and racism throughout history.
The exhibit was created by the
Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana (FHCCI), a private, nonprofit fair housing organization based in Indianapolis.
When: The exhibit will be open from January 9 through March 3. Library hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays.
Where: Allen County Public Library Main Library, 900 Library Plz, Fort Wayne, IN 46802, in the Great Hall near the Plaza Entrance
Why it’s important: From the amenities available nearby and the demographic makeup, “Unwelcomed”
provides participants with a look at how former policies and practices shaped present-day neighborhoods across Indiana. The exhibit can help visitors understand the place they call home and what to look for in modern-day housing discrimination.
The exhibit raises awareness and creates a conversation about how Hoosiers can challenge housing barriers and inequities.
What they’re saying: “Every February, we strive to celebrate the contributions and successes of Black leaders and the Black community, while also drawing attention to racial injustices that still exist. When the FHCCI approached us about the exhibit, we knew it would a perfect complement to our Black History Month programming for 2025.” -Beth Boatright, ACPL Director of Community Partnerships and Programs
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