Introductory Remarks by Amy Freitag, Board Member of the James Marston
Fitch Charitable Foundation

Moderated by Michal Raz-Russo, Director of Programs at the Gordon Parks
Foundation

Archtober Newburgh is thrilled to announce that Chicago-based photographer,
social justice artist and MacArthur ’Genius Grant’ awardee Tonika Lewis
Johnson will join us for an inspiring keynote and moderated conversation.
Drawing from her acclaimed projects—including Folded Map, Don’t Go,
Inequity for Sale, and UnBlocked Englewood —Johnson will examine how
historical planning and housing policies continue to shape present-day
realities and how storytelling can be used as a tool for connection, civic
engagement, and community-led change.

Presented in partnership with the James Marston Fitch Charitable Foundation,
this program will explore how art, storytelling, photography, and community
engagement can illuminate the lasting impacts of segregation, disinvestment,
and neighborhood identity and offer creative solutions toward healing
and community transformation. While her work is rooted in Chicago,
Johnson’s work raises questions that resonate deeply in Newburgh and river
cities along the Hudson that were scarred from urban renewal and red lining.
Join us for an engaging evening and discussion about how artists, residents,
and institutions can help shape more equitable and connected communities.

To read more about Johnson’s work please visit: tonikajohnson.com