23: I would GREEN THE GHETTO: Majora Carter

Give us your feedback and tell us what you would do if you ruled the world!

Since recording this episode, Kamala Harris has been nominated as the US Democratic Party’s presidential candidate. So strap yourselves in for a seriously timely conversation about leadership challenges for women of colour! Today, I’m joined by Majora Carter, an urban revitalisation strategy consultant and real estate developer, who is famously known for her pioneering work in green urban planning in the South Bronx.

Episode Highlights:

Majora's Early Influence:

• Growing up in South Bronx, Majora shares her personal evolution amidst the neighbourhood's challenges and the stark realities of urban decline and systemic racism. Her journey from witnessing the destructive fires of the 70s to becoming a beacon of hope and change lays the foundation for this conversation.

Greening the Ghetto:

• Majora recounts her pioneering TED Talk and the inception of sustainable projects like the South Bronx Greenway. She discusses the complexities of introducing green spaces in urban areas and the resistance that sometimes follows from within the community.

The Backlash and Public Perception:

• A profound segment where Majora reflects on the public backlash she faced after gaining national attention, encapsulated by her portrayal in the media as a hero turned betrayer of her own community.

Environmental Justice and Economic Development:

• Majora outlines her strategies for combining environmental sustainability with economic development, emphasising green job training and community empowerment. She delves into the intricate balance of enhancing neighbourhood conditions while fostering local employment.

Vision for Urban Communities:

• If she ruled the world, Majora shares her broader vision for urban communities globally — from policy changes to grassroots initiatives that prioritise both environmental sustainability and social equity.

Follow the show:

You can follow ‘If I Ruled the World’ on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or your preferred platform of choice.

Connect with our guest:

• Majora Carter

Follow Gillian

Instagram

Website

Mentions & Resources

• Majora’s Ted Talk - Greening the Ghetto
• Reclaiming Your Community Book
• Robert Moses
• Steven Sapp

What would you do if you ruled the world?

If you have any insights or feedback on today’s episode or you have an idea for how the world could be a better place, drop me an email on [email protected]

A final thank you to our wonderful sponsors Triodos Bank UK for making this podcast happen, and to The Wildlife Trusts for their continued support.

Credits:

Host: Gillian Burke

Production Company: Soundquake

Producer: Sam Hamilton-Turner

Editing: Jake-Lee Savage