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Main Street America–alongside our co-host partners Main Street Alabama and Sweet Home Alabama–is incredibly excited to co-host the 2024 Main Street Now Conference in Birmingham, Alabama, from May 6-8. In this inaugural article of a three-part series exploring the intersection between this year’s conference themes and community-based initiatives in Birmingham, we are pleased to collaborate with the City of Birmingham’s Office of Social Justice and Racial Equity. Keep reading to learn more about the city’s dedication to creating places for everyone, and their role in fostering a just and equitable Birmingham that is welcoming to all residents and nurtures a sense of belonging for community members of all backgrounds.
Conference registration is open, with early bird rates available through March 11. Check out the conference website and follow the conference's Facebook and Twitter accounts for the latest updates.
Welcome to Birmingham, Alabama, where the warmth of Southern hospitality meets the living legacy of the Civil Rights Movement’s dedication to advancing racial justice and a vibrant tapestry of LGBTQ+ culture. As the cultural landscape of the city transforms, so too does the conversation surrounding strategies to ensure a welcoming, just, and equitable Birmingham for all.
At the forefront of Birmingham's work toward inclusivity is Mayor Randall Woodfin. His leadership has been instrumental in implementing policies and initiatives that reflect a commitment to equality for all residents.
A few noteworthy achievements under Mayor Woodfin's administration are the creation of the Mayor's Division of Social Justice and Racial Equity, appointment of an LGBTQ+ Liaison, and the formation of the LGBTQ+ Advisory Board. This office serves as a cornerstone for addressing issues of discrimination faced by various marginalized communities. By creating a dedicated space for social justice, Mayor Woodfin's office is actively working towards building a more inclusive city.
This office has been instrumental in advocating for and enacting policy change in Birmingham. Birmingham became the first city in Alabama to offer fully inclusive healthcare benefits for our transgender-identifying employees, offer domestic partner benefits, and change all single-occupancy restrooms to gender neutral facilities. A major accomplishment was recognized as Birmingham became the first city in Alabama to offer protections for the LGBTQ+ community through a non-discrimination order.
In addition to structural changes, the City of Birmingham and Mayor Woodfin have been outspoken advocates for recognizing Birmingham’s living human rights legacy. Last year, in recognition of the 60th anniversary of the Birmingham Campaign for Civil and Human Rights, the City partnered with local churches, arts organizations, activists, businesses, and nonprofits to launch a special commemorative initiative that consisted of programs, events, workshops, entertainment, and a special poster series. Designed by Office of Public Information graphic designers Marcus Watts and Bre Rudolph, the 12 Forging Justice Commemoration posters supported monthly storytelling themes, provided opportunities for reflection and remembrance, and created vibrant public art keepsakes.
And, on March 18, 2022, in honor of Reverend Fred L. Shuttlesworth’s 100th birthday and his central role in the Civil Rights Movement and connection to historic sites and events in the city, Mayor Woodfin—in partnership with the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and Bethel Baptist Church—presided over an event naming the date as Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth Day.
Mayor Woodfin’s public support of LGBTQ+ rights, such as supporting local LGBTQ+ organizations and co-presenting a proclamation for Pride Month, sends a powerful message that resonates not just within the LGBTQ+ community, but across the entire city as a safe space for all residents. By using his platform to champion inclusivity, Mayor Woodfin is shaping a city that values diversity and actively works to dismantle barriers.
Beyond city governance, Birmingham is home to organizations and initiatives that play a pivotal role in driving positive change for the city’s diverse communities:
The Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument was formed in 2017 to ensure the preservation of the events, stories, and events of the Birmingham Campaign for Civil and Human Rights. In 2022, the City of Birmingham and National Park Service celebrated the monument’s five-year anniversary and the restoration of the historic A.G. Gaston Motel. As the headquarters of the 1963 desegregation campaign, the motel is a key site of the Monument.
Re-envision Linn Park project, a coalition effort led by REV Birmingham—a Main Street program serving downtown Birmingham and Woodlawn neighborhoods—aims to position the downtown park as “a vibrant destination that drives inclusive growth, greater public use, preservation and property reinvestment.” (REVBirmingham.org) Over 1000 individuals have participated in a community input process consisting of three public workshops, focus groups, and online surveys.
Magic City Acceptance Center: (MCAC) stands as a testament to Birmingham's commitment to its LGBTQ+ youth. By providing a safe haven, mentorship programs, and educational resources, MCAC addresses the unique challenges faced by young individuals within the community. MCAC fosters a sense of belonging and support that contributes to the resilience of Birmingham's LGBTQ+ youth.
HRC (Human Rights Campaign) Alabama is a statewide organization that has a significant presence in Birmingham, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights through education, outreach, and legislative efforts. HRC works to create systemic change by influencing policies that protect the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals. Their work extends beyond city limits, contributing to a more inclusive state
Central Alabama Pride organizes Birmingham's annual Pride festival and Pride Parade. They play a crucial role in creating a space for celebration, visibility, and activism. Pride events serve as a rallying point for the LGBTQ+ community and allies, showcasing Birmingham's commitment to diversity and equality.
The T.A.K.E (Transgender. Advocates. Knowledgeable. Empowering) Resource Center was initially conceived as a peer support group for trans women of color to connect and exchange narratives, but it quickly became more than that. Recognizing the need for organized efforts to dismantle barriers and establish benchmarks within the Birmingham community regarding trans-related issues, T.A.K.E embarked on a mission to address pressing concerns, including workplace discrimination, housing advocacy, support for sex workers, the provision of trans-friendly services, and addressing the barriers faced by transgender people of color that were often overlooked by others.
Birmingham also offers multiple inclusive spaces and events that cater to the LGBTQ+ community. From LGBTQ+ bars like Al's on Seventh, The Quest Club, and Our Place, to welcoming spaces like Saturn, Birmingham's nightlife reflects the city's commitment to providing spaces where individuals can express themselves freely and connect with like-minded individuals.
Birmingham has achieved an impressive milestone on the Human Rights Campaign's MEI (Municipal Equality Index), earning a perfect score of 100 percent. This score is a reflection of the city's commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, highlighting policies and practices that create an inclusive environment for everyone. The MEI evaluates cities based on various criteria, including non-discrimination laws, municipal services, law enforcement practices, and leadership on LGBTQ+ equality. Birmingham's perfect score is not just a number: it symbolizes a city's dedication to fostering an atmosphere of acceptance and respect for diversity.
The City has also adopted policies designed to advance social justice, such as prioritizing violence reduction strategies, including the provision of $2.3 million to support the launch of Alabama’s first hospital-linked violence intervention program and leveraging the city’s 2023 Operating Budget to invest in areas to support prevention, reentry, and enforcement initiatives as ways to address root causes of violence and bolster continuum of care for justice-impacted individuals.
Looking ahead, Birmingham will continue to build on its successes and momentum to become a model city for LGBTQ+ inclusivity and social justice advancement. By fostering open dialogues, strengthening partnerships between community organizations, and championing policies that protect vulnerable communities, Birmingham is poised to set new benchmarks for progress. When you visit Birmingham, you're not just exploring the city's rich history: you're stepping into a community that values diversity, acceptance, and equality.
If you’re interested in learning more about the role that Main Street programs and local governments play in advancing welcoming and belonging in communities, make sure to check out the 2024 Main Street Now Conference in Birmingham, Alabama, from May 6-8. There you will find ample opportunities to explore this topic through education sessions, mobile workshops, network-building, and more. Registration is now open! Preview the agenda, start planning your visit, and register here >
Josh Coleman serves as the Deputy Director, Office of Social Justice and Racial Equity and LGBTQ+ Liaison for the City of Birmingham. He is also the president of Central Alabama Pride, a non-profit 501c3 organization committed to spreading the message of equality throughout Central Alabama, as well as providing educational programs and services to LGBT citizens and allies throughout the state and Southeast region.
Learn more about the City of Birmingham Office of Social Justice and Racial Equity:
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Community Heart & Soul, a Main Street America Allied Member, is this quarter's Main Spotlight advertiser. For more information about the products and services they provide to Main Street organizations, click here >
Main Street America is pleased to announce the launch of a $1.8 million sub-grant program as part of our partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation's (USDOT) Thriving Communities Program.
Beloit, Kansas © Shane Hampton
Erin Barnes spoke to Frances Jo Hamilton at Heritage Ohio about the importance of stepping up for our communities.
It is important to make sure that the growth of your community does not result in displacement or marginalization. Putting equity at the core of your transformation strategy helps you work towards measures of success that benefit everyone.
Creating real change in business ownership starts with local communities leading the way, backed by strong partnerships and collaborations.
MSA President and CEO Erin Barnes explores how a holiday market in a public park brought a new focus on growing humanitarian needs in downtown city centers.
Learn how Main Street America's work with the DOT's Thriving Communities Program is supporting transformative efforts with community partners like the Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe.
Learn how Pikeville Pride partners with Pikeville Main Street to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community in their rural Kentucky town.
May is Jewish American Heritage Month! We collected ideas and resources to help you explore Jewish American history on your community and work toward a more inclusive Main Street.
At Fort Vancouver in Vancouver, Washington, Native Hawaiians played a critical role in the success of the Hudson Bay Company. Today, Vancouver’s Hawaiian history and heritage plays a crucial role in efforts to reenergize the city’s historic downtown.
Urban Impact Inc., harnesses strategic investments and collaborative efforts to foster a vibrant and sustainable future, from visionary adaptive reuse ventures to transformative development grants for small businesses and property owners in Birmingham, Alabama's historic 4th Avenue Black Business District.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $20B in federal Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) awards distributed to eight national non-profit consortiums. Main Street America looks forward to partnership and engagement with awardees and local programs to identify projects and expand impact throughout our network.
Hillsboro, Oregon © Alicia Gallo
Main Street America Program Officer encourages communities to advance equity for women to grow a more inclusive Movement.
Learn how this Louisiana town has used an accessibility-first approach to build a welcoming and inclusive community.
Downtown Ruston, Louisiana. Photo by Henry McCoy.
Tasha Sams, Manager of Education Programs, shares highlights of phase one of the Equitable Entrepreneurial Ecosystems (E3) in Rural Main Streets Program and the biggest takeaways from the workshop experiences.
In this video, learn more about the Williams’ family story, how the business is helping to revive downtown Helena, and the impact they’re having on a national level.
In this episode of Main Street Business Insights, Matt sits down with Derrick Braziel, owner of Pata Roja Taqueria and co-founder of MORTAR, in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Learn how micromobility can increase access, equity, and inclusion in your Main Street with examples from local programs across the network.
Learn how Albany, Georgia, recognizes their civil rights legacy and supports the African American community today.
Celebrate this traditional Mexican holiday with Gardnerville, Nevada.
Gardnerville, NV © Main Street Gardnerville
Tasha Sams shared their experiences at this unique Appalachian cultural festival.
Learn how this community in Oklahoma celebrated Dia de la Independencia with a big festival.
Tulsa, OK © Kendall Whittier Main Street
Learn how Rio Grande City is building a welcoming and inclusive city for both Mexicans and Americans.
Rio Grande City, TX © Rio Grande City
Learn how the Little Santo Domingo neighborhood of Miami is working with the Truist Foundation to strengthen pathways to small business ownership.
© Allapattah CDC
Learn how this Massachusetts community uses their farmer's market to increase access to fresh food.
Every year, H2BE holds their Juneteenth Mobility Stroll and Roll in Dearborn, MI, which celebrates Black Americans and improves local connections. Learn more about the event and why Juneteenth is important to this community.
Dearborn, MI © H2BE
Do you want to support the next generation of Main Street leadership! Start a youth board! Learn how Historic Downtown Clinton set theirs up and how your organization can benefit from one.
The Main Street Movement is a proud ally of the LGBTQ+ community. We spoke to Main Street leaders about how they support the LGBTQ+ community during Pride and beyond.
Steps you can take to engage your local Jewish community and make your Main Street feel welcoming for individual Jewish locals or visitors.
On May 9, the National Trust for Historic Preservation released its list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places for 2023 which included a cultural district located within a designated Main Street America community.
Miami, FL © NTHP
The annual Cinco de Mayo Parade and Fiesta in the Mexicantown Main Street district offers a great example of collaborative partnerships that honor the community’s cultural heritage and support local businesses through events.
Meet Kavi, the first Indian American Girl of the Year doll and a (fictional) resident of 2023 Great American Main Street Award winner Metuchen, New Jersey!
Metuchen, NJ © Lauren Beischer Photography
Community Development Block Grants are powerful tools for Main Street programs. Learn more about how CDBG's can be applied to our work and how you can advocate for the program
Main Street America was awarded $5.9 million to support 20 communities in the Main Streets Community of Practice through the Department of Transportation's Thriving Communities Program over the next two years.
We spoke to Debbie Ho, Executive Director at Chinatown Main Street, to learn about the history of women in Boston Chinatown.
Boston, MA © Kyle Klein
Meet the newest recipients of this grant program to build stronger, more prosperous small towns and rural communities
Learn the unique history of Folsom, New Mexico, and how they are working with New Mexico MainStreet today.
Learn how this community is honoring Martin Luther King Jr. and telling the stories of Black leaders in their community.
Dublin, GA © Visit Dublin GA
Learn about the City of Boston’s efforts to invest in economic equity.
Downtown Sheridan Association partners with the Crow Tribe to host the annual First People’s Pow Wow event during the WYO Rodeo Week.
We spoke to three women who were awarded Inclusive Backing grants to learn more about their passions, their businesses, and their advice for other women.
Wixom, MI © Carissa Serylo
Storytelling is a critical part of the placemaking work that we do in Main Street districts. But are we sharing every story equally?
Jonesborough, TN © Jay Huron
Main Street Franklin is leading the way in showing how women business owners can be a powerful force for change in their communities.
Anette Landeros, President and CEO of Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, shares the importance of supporting Hispanic business owners and communities.
#EquityRising, Old Algiers Main Street Corporation's new job training program, seeks to combat rising cost of living by helping residents train for careers that will allow them to stay in their neighborhood.
We spoke to three Black business owners who were awarded Backing Small Businesses grants from Main Street America and American Express to better understand their challenges, successes, and the kinds of support that have helped them the most.
Camden, AR © Kimberly Moore Davis
June is Pride Month. Learn how Erie, PA, Emporia, KS, Frederick, MD, Macon, GA, and Billings, MT, celebrated the LGBTQ+ community.
Erie, PA © Dave Tamulonis
Stockbridge Main Street has made significant strides in exploring and sharing the story of Martin Luther King, father of civil rights hero Martin Luther King Jr.
Stockbridge, GA © Stockbridge Main Street
Juneteenth is the anniversary of the final emancipation of enslaved people in the US. Here are five examples of examples of community celebrations from Main Streets across the network.
Charles Town, WV © Elizabeth Ricketts
Learn how Downtown Florence has partnered with local Francis Marion University to provide opportunities for both students and local small businesses.
Learn about The Bottom, a historic African-American community in Thomasville, Georgia, and efforts to preserve it's history and share it's story.
Thomasville, GA © City of Thomasville
Learn how four Main Street communities celebrated Black History Month.
Oklahoma is home to the headquarters of nearly 40 federally recognized Native American tribes, and many of their offices, cultural sites, and museums are located close to or within Main Street districts.
El Reno, OK © El Reno Main Street
Kendall Whittier is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in an ever-diversifying Tulsa. Learn how they are making efforts to engage their large Hispanic community.
Tulsa, OK © Kendall Whittier Main Street
We spoke with two Black entrepreneurs in UrbanMain commercial districts: L. May Creations in the Austin neighborhood of Chicago and The Four Way in south Memphis, Tennessee.
Memphis, TN © Four Way
Heart of Biddeford shares the strategies they developed to support Black-owned businesses in their community.
Biddeford, ME © Heart of Biddeford
This May marked the 100th anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre in the Greenwood neighborhood of Tulsa, Oklahoma. We explored the impact and legacy of this tragic event.
Tulsa, OK © Dr. Tiffany Crutcher
Main Street communities across the nation are celebrating Juneteenth, the oldest national commemoration of the ending of slavery in America and the nation’s newest federal holiday!
Learn about the various programs and initiatives that Fremont is using to promote inclusive economic development.
Fremont, CA © Fremont Economic Development
From small business owners to public artists to local leaders, join us this month to amplify the impact of the LGBTQ+ community in your Main Street district.
San Luis Obispo, CA © Downtown SLO
Brooksville Main Street’s Women Leading the Way Campaign celebrated the legacy of the trailblazing women who made history in their community.
Brooksville, FL © Brooksville Main Street
For Black History Month, we want to recognize and celebrate the Black business owners and entrepreneurs who have overcome challenges and obstacles in launching and running their own businesses, thanks to resilience, creativity, and hard work.
In remembrance and in honor of Dr. Marin Luther King Jr., over 900 streets in the United States were named after him. Many are located predominantly in African American communities.
Milwaukee, WI © Historic King Drive BID
Downtown SLO has kept the magic of their holiday lights installation alive by evolving their winter wonderland into a dual celebration of Valentine’s Day and Lunar New Year, or Chinese New Year.
San Luis Obispo, CA © Downtown SLO
Main Street programs around the Network have created engaging and COVID-safe ways to honor and celebrate the histories and lives of Black Americans in their commercial districts.
Meet some amazing women business owners!
Learn how the Allapattah Collaborative in Miami, Florida, implements a range of initiatives to expand equitable development and ensure current businesses can not only remain in the corridor but also flourish.
Read the results of our survey aimed at understanding how business owners are managing the recovery from COVID-19 and responding to recent protests and social unrest related to police violence against Black Americans.
Our research team dug into some of the data about the state of Black-owned businesses on Main Street, the structural challenges they face, and how Main Streets can support them.
Since 2013, Try This West Virginia has sought to improve health environments in local communities as a collaboration of organizations working together to combat the health challenges facing West Virginians.
Supporting new and existing small businesses, and the entrepreneurs who run them, represents a vital aspect of the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhood business districts.
The Equitable Economic Development Fellowship is a two-year, one million-dollar effort funded by the Surdna Foundation and the Open Society Foundations to help equity, transparency, sustainability and community engagement become driving forces in local economic development efforts.
The Zuni Pueblo MainStreet is the nation's first (and so far, only) Native American Main Street community.
As part of the Edward Jones Placemaking on Main Challenge, Downtown Brattleboro created a pop-up, mobile mini-museum.
History and architecture play an active role in educating and immersing the next generation of preservationists in Le Mars. From museum visits, scavenger hunts, to "show and tell," involving the youth and senior communities is a priority for this Main Street.
Across the county, communities are embracing the arts as a catalyst for revitalization—of buildings, businesses, and local culture.
From walkability and transportation connectivity, to access to nature and availability of fresh food, place is inextricably linked to achieving positive health outcomes in rural America.
Appealing to mobility-challenged shoppers yields benefits beyond the store.
Main Street America is committed to helping build inclusive communities. Homelessness is an increasingly important issue facing Main Street communities big and small, urban and rural.
To understand the role that immigrant business owners play in Boston’s small business ecosystem, you need only to walk through any Boston Main Streets district.
New arrivals have made Shaw more diverse.
Preserving diverse populations, not just buildings.
