On October 23, 2006, members of Take Back The Land reclaimed publicly owned land in the Liberty City section of Miami, creating the self governed shantytown of Umoja Village. In the wake of public housing vacancies, corrupt city officials and flawed federal programs, a community found the unrelenting courage to fight back. Using minimal resources such as discarded plywood, packing palettes, and tin roofs, a collective group of activists, Umoja residents, and community supporters built temporary housing units for 53 displaced residents.
In spite of police arrests, court battles, interpersonal conflicts, and the devastating fire which would reduce the village to ashes, the Umoja clan stood strong with unbridled spirits, proving the power of determination and perseverance.
This book documents the planning, development, struggles and triumphs endured by Take Back The Land activists and Umoja Village residents, and tackles the larger fundamental issues of land and power distribution in black communities.
This story is absolutely amazing. I have always dreamed of accomplishing this task and I am so proud of the Omoja Villagers for withstanding the harsh treatment and pressure that is directed toward them. It is so beautiful to see citizens taking control of their own situations instead of begging for help from the government like the larger corporations are today. I wish these people the best in their adventure, and I hope this village is here to stay.
ReplyDeleteSorry to inform you that the village burned down about a year ago....
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