We are excited to share our special Black History Month episode for “The Common Ground” podcast on Monday, February 20. In this episode, titled “How Art and Research Reimagine Housing Justice,” we sat down with artist Tonika Johnson and political economist Amber Hanley to explore how art and research can work together to reimagine housing justice.
The conversation centers on Chicago’s Greater Englewood neighborhood and the lasting impacts of predatory land sale contracts exploitative housing practices that stripped Black families of wealth, stability, and the promise of homeownership in the mid-20th century. It also unpacks why it is critical to explicitly name predatory land sale contracts rather than speak abstractly about “housing inequities.” As Hanley explains, “this harm is well-documented with names, addresses, and financial records...,” creating a powerful foundation for accountability and reparative solutions.
Together, Tonika and Amber demonstrate what becomes possible when research does not sit on a shelf, and art does not stand alone. Data becomes accessible. History becomes personal. Solutions become tangible.
“Our ancestors were bold. They infiltrated a housing system that wasn’t built with them in mind . . . because they believed in what homeownership could mean for their families,” said Tonika.
This episode shows the intricate details of how collaboration can dismantle narratives about disinvestment and instead highlight community strength, intelligence, and collective problem-solving. Their partnership models how artists and researchers or even multisector partners can respect one another’s expertise while working toward shared solutions.
To hear more about this important discussion, you can listen to “The Common Ground” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and SoundCloud. Subscribe to join us as we explore our shared commitment to finding common ground.