A tale of two cities: once industrial powerhouses, now labelled “post-industrial”, both Glasgow and Detroit have gone from prosperous to purposeless, with schemes of “urban renewal” and “regeneration” that serve the needs of investors but leave a legacy of systemic failure for residents.

 

But something is growing in both cities: Activists are exploring new way of using land, creating new cities and new ways of living. Produced and edited by activists Don MacKeen, Jackie MacMaster and Bob Hamilton, the film examines the growing urban gardening movement, comparing the experiences of Detroiters and Glaswegians who refuse to accept the idea that the city is somebody else’s problem. A series of interviews with gardeners, activists and thinkers reveals a vision of the city that goes beyond the superficial vision of the developers and presents us with a blueprint for a renewal of community.

 

Join us after the film showing to reflect on the film's themes with activists from Glasgow currently working in the urban gardening movement and the public reclamation of land for the common good. We will explore ideas about how we live and for whom, the value of food sovereignty and the need for active citizenship. 

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This is an online FREE event taking place via Zoom. We encourage participants to donate if possible to help support PEN Scotland in our work.

 

To ensure you are able to participate, please register via EventBrite or email penscotland@gmail.com to reserve your place.