How South Siders Are Fighting to be Part of Obama Center 'Transformation'

Construction is underway on the Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park. But since the project launched, residents in nearby neighborhoods like Woodlawn and South Shore have worried the “transformation” the center is expected to bring to the South Side could push them out of their homes. They’ve fought for a community benefits agreement to ensure protections, but project leaders — and the former president, himself — have rejected calls to sign one. So what is a CBA? And without one, how else are housing activists fighting displacement? Guests: Dixon Romeo — Organizer, Not Me We Sarah Conway — Senior Reporter, City Bureau Here’s City Bureau’s guide on community benefits agreements and alternatives. Check out the Women's L Project, which celebrates women of Chicago's past and present. Call or text us at 773-780-0246 and tell us what you were doing right before the pandemic shutdown in 2020. Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm