375 Stuyvesant Avenue, nestled in the heart of Bedford Stuyvesant, stands as more than just a building; it is a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of our community history. This cherished landmark is owned by the family of Dr. Josephine English, a groundbreaking Black gynecologist, and has since become a haven for the vitality of our senior citizens, a launchpad for community initiatives, and a crucible for the arts, entrepreneurship, education, and youth development.

For decades, laughter and joy have echoed through its halls, and organizations have flourished under its roof. Now, the courts have ordered its immediate sale, opening the doors for yet another commercial takeover. If that happens, we risk losing far more than just a property - we risk losing a piece of who we are as a community. Such a transformation would not only erase the legacy of Dr. English, but also drain the community of its cultural foundation.

Instead, we strive for preservation and empowerment. We are calling for 375 Stuyvesant Avenue to be transferred to the BLAC Land Trust - a community land trust dedicated to reclaiming and preserving Black-owned land and cultural spaces across Brooklyn. The BLAC Land Trust was founded to ensure that historic properties like this one remain in community hands, governed by the people they serve, and protected from speculation and displacement.  

The community land trust would empower residents by allowing collective ownership and governance, thus ensuring that the space thrives in response to communal needs rather than commercial interests. This model has been successfully implemented across the nation, reflecting a sustainable and equitable way to preserve community assets.

Join us in this critical mission to protect our heritage and future.

What can you do?

1) Sign this petition to stop the upcoming sale and advocate for the transfer of 375 Stuyvesant Avenue to the BLAC Land Trust. 

2) Join us on Saturday November 22nd for a day of activities!

3) Pledge whatever you can afford at our Go Fund ME campaign. Funds will go towards legal fees, stabilizing and preserving the building, and continuing existing building programming.  

LEARN UPDATES AND GET INVOLVED!

JOIN US FOR A COMMUNITY DAY OF ACTION THIS SATURDAY NOV. 22ND!!!

@375 Stuyvesant Avenue

     3pm - Healing Circles and Reiki 

     4pm - Story Sharing, Reflecting, and Connecting

     5pm - Mansion Tour

@St. Phillips Episcopal Church - 265 Decatur Street, BK

     6pm - Town Hall

Together, we can keep our legacy alive and thriving.