URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) — A new book exploring grassroots social change will take center stage at a community event celebrating decades of activism, art and education in Champaign-Urbana.
“Remaking Democracy: How We Make the Worlds We Want” will be featured during a special event Sunday, April 12, marking the 35th anniversary of the School for Designing a Society. The event will include a book launch, panel discussion, live performances and an art exhibit.
Beginning at 1 p.m., with the gallery opening at noon, the program will bring together local leaders, artists and organizers to reflect on the ideas behind the book and the broader movement it represents. The discussion will be moderated by Carol Ammons and feature contributors Danielle Chynoweth and Elizabeth Adam.
The book serves as a guide to social transformation, combining perspectives from race and gender justice, radical education and experimental art. Organizers say it aims to provide both analysis and practical strategies for creating more equitable and sustainable communities.
“Remaking Democracy” also traces the history of several interconnected projects that began in Urbana, including the Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center, CU Citizens for Peace and Justice, healthcare design initiatives with Patch Adams, and Cunningham Township’s efforts to address homelessness.
The event will also showcase artwork and performances from a wide range of artists connected to the School for Designing a Society over the past 35 years. Featured contributors include Aaron Ammons, Roberta Bennett, Herbert Brun, Cope Cumpson, and Kate McDowell, among others.
The afternoon’s schedule includes a book talk at 1 p.m., followed by a discussion, a concert at 2 p.m., a second discussion and a gallery reception beginning at 3:30 p.m.
Admission to the event is free, though organizers are encouraging a sliding-scale donation of $10 to $60 to support performers and the book tour. Attendees who contribute $20 or more will receive a signed copy of the book.