Disciplines

African American Studies

Abstract

Abstract

Interviewer: Mark Naison, Ryan Purcell, Shellae Versey

Interviewee: Kazambe Balagun

In this second part of an interview with Kazembe Balagun, he discusses Co-Op City’s neighborly qualities in depth, specifically in regards to the community it fosters for all ages. Kazambe’s knowledge is direct evidence that defies the stigmatized viewpoints and negative stereotypes on public housing. This viewpoint is transcended through Balagun’s passionate dialogue on the importance of children and the development of the youth in Co-Op City, his engagement with community-based activities, as well as his extensive knowledge on local politics. As Balagun stresses the importance of political involvement and community organizing, his voice is palpable proof of the cultivating Black culture and political life that has become emblematic in Co-Op City’s environment.

Kazembe recounts his cherished memories of Co-Op City and how his experiences with his son, Miles, shape his understanding of its multi-generational dwellings and its neighborly community. Balagun describes the neighborhood's spaciousness and the activities he and his son engaged in, like walking and playing in the Greenway. He even shares a touching story about his mother planting a tree for his son, which still stands as a memorial. Just like the tenacity of this tree and the compassion these memories foster, Balagun stresses the importance of the school environment and the youth to our community. It is what keeps Co-Op City thriving. He also suggests the need for more after-school programs and community centers for young people and the essentialness of the youth in our communities, specifically, the importance of providing them with the resources they need to realize and understand their potential and goals. That is how a community thrives and operates, and that is how Co-Op City maintains its familial image.

As Kazembe highlights the supportive extended family network, the community's senior respect, and the involvement of local schools like Pablo Casals and Truman High School, we can see how Kazembe is directly involved in Co-Op City’s community-oriented development. He is also a key historian in understanding the fruition of these events. Kazembe touches on the community's political landscape, voter disengagement, and the importance of local activism. His extensive knowledge on the local politics of his community allow us to see the importance of activism within one’s vicinity, but also how his intellect on politics is direct proof of how to continue a dialogue that transcends negative viewpoints that are perpetuated through stereotypes. Kazembe contrasts these negative stereotypes of high-rise public housing with the positive community engagement in Co-Op City. As he discusses how this perception is racialized, the importance of expunging this notion becomes apparent through advocates and voices such as Kazembe. Kazembe Balagun demonstrates how the role of community-based businesses and programs, and the sense of stability and safety in Co-Op City, are but one of many instances that display Co-Op City’s ability to cultivate and develop a community that transcends set boundaries and standards.

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