and Roy Diblik, who are longtime supporters of Blacks in Green, a metamorphosis took place. Gone are the weeds and chain-link fence, in their place is a thoughtfully designed landscape of native grasses and perennials.Gardens tend to have that kind of uplifting effect on people’s emotions or psyches, Davis said, but she’s also banking on what she’s dubbed “garden-oriented development” to lift the community’s physical and economic health as well.
The work is slow-going, Davis admitted, with that sustainable square mile she sees in her mind’s eye maybe 5% activated.Fresh landscaping at the Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley House. It’s also designed to show neighbors what’s possible and offer inspiration. Picture a future, Davis said, where tourists visit the Till-Mobley House museum and stick around to wander the streets, map in hand of neighborhood gardens.
This summer, timed with Juneteenth, Davis unveiled her latest project: the addition of the Prairie Rainwater Parkway Garden at the Forgiveness Garden.