What Happens When Residents Start Paying Attention?

What Happens When Residents Start Paying Attention?
A Community Conversation Inspired by Unsafe Black Voice

Join author, civic engagement advocate, and Where The People Meet TV founder Meleika Gardner for an intimate evening of conversation, reflection, and community dialogue inspired by her book, Unsafe Black Voice: Exposing Evanston's Political Machine Inside America's First Reparations City.

The evening will be moderated by Lesley Williams, recipient of the 2024 Chicago Area Peace Action Pursuit of Peace Award and the inaugural Spirit of Open Communities Award. A respected leader in advancing racial justice, fair housing, transparency, and community engagement, Williams has served as President of Open Communities and the Community Alliance for Better Government and has facilitated community discussions on issues ranging from racism and environmental justice to inclusion and civic participation.

Through personal experience, public records, community organizing, and years of civic engagement, Unsafe Black Voice explores questions surrounding housing, displacement, reparations, public trust, political power, and who gets heard in local government.

This is not a lecture.

This is not a campaign event.

This is an opportunity to gather in community and engage in a thoughtful conversation about the issues shaping Evanston today and the future we want to create together.

When planning this event, Gardner was not looking for someone to simply ask questions. She wanted someone thoughtful, independent, and respected...someone willing to ask honest questions, challenge assumptions when necessary, and help create a meaningful conversation rather than an easy one.

The evening will include:

• A moderated conversation about Unsafe Black Voice and the experiences, stories, public records, and questions explored in the book
• Discussion about why the book was written, what surprised the author during the writing process, and the people and moments that shaped it
• Audience Q&A and community discussion
• Book signing and informal conversation
• Wine and water provided

For years, Meleika Gardner has been the one asking the questions. On June 25th, the questions will be directed at her.

Whether you've finished the book, are currently reading it, or are simply curious about the conversations it has sparked, you are welcome.

Come listen.

Come ask questions.

Come be part of the conversation.

Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Evanston Art Center
1717 Central Street
Evanston, Illinois

Seating is intentionally limited to encourage meaningful discussion.

RSVP is strongly encouraged.