Breakout Sessions
Thursday, October 10
10:15 – 11:15 AM: Newlab at Michigan Central, Detroit, MI
All in a Name
10:15 – 11:15 AM
3rd Floor Studio
Explore the power of naming public spaces in examining history, fostering belonging, and cultural erasure. Highlighting the naming of Detroit’s Joe Louis Greenway and the campaign to preserve Core City's name, we’ll examine how naming can shape narratives and support reconciliation efforts.
Moderator:
Ryan Myers-Johnson
Executive Director, Sidewalk Detroit
Panelists:
Meagan Elliott
President and CEO, Belle Isle Conservancy
Debra Gore
President and CEO, The Greenlining Institute
Cornetta Lane-Smith
Director of Community Engagement, Michigan Central
Cultivate Communities with Nature
10:15 – 11:15 AM
Event Space
This session explores how design, programming, and advocacy can bridge communities with nature. Highlighting grassroots efforts in ecological restoration and climate adaptation, we’ll discuss why public spaces have a unique responsibility and opportunity to foster co-resiliency, creating sustainable and inclusive environments that connect people with the natural world.
Moderator:
Jennifer Giroux
Social Impact Strategist, Giroux Impact
Panelists:
Piero Barandiaran
Projects Director, Huerto Roma Verde/ La Cuadra AC
Tarrah Beaudoin
Coordinator, Darlington Ecological Corridor
Claire Mooney
Vice President for Park Projects & Conservation, Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy
Lisa Turnbull
Associate Director, Toronto and Region Conservation Authority - The Meadoway
The Community First Toolkit Workshop: Examine History
10:15 – 11:15 AM
Exhibit Space
Understanding the cultural and historical context of public spaces is essential for creating inclusive, equitable environments. This workshop introduces the "Examine History" tools of the High Line Network's Community First Toolkit designed to help organizations uncover their site's ties to complex legacies—both positive and negative. Participants will explore how acknowledging these connections can honor the past while fostering more inclusive future developments. By embracing historical insights, we can shape public spaces that reflect and respect diverse histories and build stronger, more resilient communities. This session empowers project leaders to navigate the past and create meaningful spaces that truly serve all community members.
Attendees will learn about the tools available in the Examine History toolkit section, and complete an activity on Mapping Community Assets.
Facilitators:
Justin Wong
Teaching Artist, High Line
Luna Fu
Community Engagement Coordinator, High Line
The Community First Toolkit Workshop: Center Equity
10:15 – 11:15 AM
Chene Classroom
Centering equity in project goals is crucial for driving meaningful and lasting change in public spaces. This workshop introduces the "Center Equity" tools of the High Line Network's Community First Toolkit, which help organizations develop a shared understanding of equity and how to actively advance it in their work. Participants will explore strategies to prioritize equitable objectives, ensuring that their projects reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of the communities they serve. By embracing these tools, organizations can create spaces that not only meet immediate community needs but also foster long-term social cohesion and fairness for all.
Attendees will learn about the tools available in the Center Equity toolkit section, and complete an activity on Crafting a Theory of Action.
Facilitators:
Gabriella Malavé
Programs Manager, Administration & Special Projects, High Line
T. Christopher Peoples
Director of Equity + Economic Impact, Great Rivers Greenway
The Community First Toolkit Workshop: Build Partnerships
10:15 – 11:15 AM
Woodward Classroom
Strong community partnerships are essential to the success of any project. This workshop introduces the "Build Partnerships" tools of the High Line Network's Community First Toolkit, designed to help organizations engage with community members and partners at every stage. By fostering deep collaborations, these tools strengthen alliances and ensure that projects are shaped by the needs and input of the communities they serve. Participants will explore strategies for building meaningful partnerships that amplify impact, enhance project outcomes, and create spaces that truly reflect and serve their communities.
Attendees will learn about the tools available in the Build Partnerships toolkit section, and complete an activity on Maximizing your Impact.
Facilitators:
Allison Currier
Community Engagement Manager, High Line
Jessica Smith Lennan
Deputy Director, 11th Street Bridge Park
