UNDESIGN THE REDLINE

September 1 – October 31

Library Hours: Home | Worthington Libraries

Old Worthington Library’s Popular Library (main floor)

Systemic challenges today, like inequalities in housing, education, income, criminal justice and health, are far from separate issues. They are rooted in a deep and tangled history of discriminatory policies, practices and processes that remain hidden and misunderstood. In addition to shining a light on the inequality, Undesign the Redline can help with the long-overdue conversation about it, reframing challenges as opportunities, so discussions about race, wealth, opportunity and power are not about guilt and blame.

The exhibit explores the history of structural racism caused by the 1938 federal redlining maps, which color-coded U.S. cities by their level of security for real estate investments. Some neighborhoods, often with Black populations, were outlined in red and deemed the riskiest for mortgages. This long-ago inequality continues to affect our communities today, but Undesign the Redline focuses on the ways we can “undesign” these systems together.

Presented in partnership with the Worthington Historical Society, City of Worthington, Worthington Community Relations Commission, Worthington Schools and Erase the Space.