UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Sustain Penn State will host a virtual screening of “Razing Liberty Square” at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 21 as part of its "Intersections" film series. The film explores the convergence of climate change, housing and environmental justice through the story of Liberty Square, the first segregated public housing project in the United States.
About the film
Built in the early 20th century in a walled-off area of Miami, Florida, Liberty Square originally was considered undesirable real estate because of its distance from the coast. In the 21st century, however, rising sea levels and climate change have made higher-elevation land increasingly valuable. As a result, the predominantly Black community has become the target of developers and city officials who promise improved public housing in exchange for residents giving up their homes to make way for private development, a process known as climate gentrification.
Access to affordable housing is an increasing challenge across the U.S., driven by factors including housing shortages, labor constraints in construction, rising material costs, zoning restrictions, and mismatches between where housing is available and where people are relocating. Climate change further intensifies these challenges, particularly for communities already facing systemic inequities.
“Razing Liberty Square” highlights residents navigating these intersecting pressures as they fight for the best possible outcomes for their community, even when the path forward is uncertain. The film offers an opportunity to examine how climate change, development and environmental justice intersect in real and deeply personal ways.
“This event is a valuable opportunity for people to learn about the deep impact that climate change has on communities,” said Julius Camper, student and public programming coordinator for Sustain Penn State. “‘Razing Liberty Square’ is a film that will show you the direct impacts of climate change from the perspectives of those who are affected.”
Following the screening, participants will be invited to attend a panel discussion featuring experts on climate justice, housing, and sustainability:
- Marc Miller, associate professor of landscape architecture and Stuckeman School associate director for access, well-being, and equity
- Clarissa Albrecht, lecturer in the Stuckeman School Department of Architecture
The screening will take place over Zoom and is free and open to the public. Advance registration is required and can be completed through this linked registration form.
For more information, contact Julius Camper at jac8761@psu.edu.