South Dallas is experiencing a powerful movement of reclamation and revitalization. From historic theaters being restored to new businesses opening their doors, the community is taking ownership of its narrative and future. CEDARS stands at the center of this movement, documenting stories and supporting initiatives that keep South Dallas rooted in its heritage while growing toward the future.
This is not gentrification. This is reclamation. This is community members investing in their own neighborhoods, preserving history, and building economic power from within.
These projects represent the heartbeat of South Dallas revitalization, where community members are preserving history and building economic opportunity.
The historic Forest Theater, once a cornerstone of Black cinema in Dallas, is being restored by the community. This landmark hosted generations of South Dallas families and will soon reopen as a community arts center.
Vision: Cultural hub, film screenings, community events
In ProgressThe Cedars has transformed into an artist district while maintaining affordability and community character. Local artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs are opening studios, galleries, and businesses.
Focus: Artist-owned spaces, community studios, local businesses
OngoingThis adaptive reuse project transformed a historic Sears building into a mixed-use space with local businesses like Opening Bell Coffee. The building maintains its architectural heritage while serving the community.
Impact: Local jobs, community gathering spaces, historic preservation
EstablishedCEDARS partners with DART to ensure transit access connects South Dallas residents to opportunities while bringing visitors to local businesses and cultural sites.
Routes: Green Line, Blue Line connecting Fair Park and Downtown
Active PartnershipInitiatives are underway to establish community land trusts that keep property ownership in the hands of South Dallas residents, preventing displacement through collective ownership models.
Goal: Permanent affordability, community control
Building SupportPrograms supporting South Dallas entrepreneurs to open businesses in their own neighborhoods, keeping economic power local and creating generational wealth.
Support: Business training, funding access, mentorship
LaunchingThese organizations are doing critical work to amplify community voices, preserve heritage, and fight displacement in South Dallas and beyond.
Supporting innovation and entrepreneurship in underserved Dallas communities
Visit Website →Community-led revitalization of Fair Park and surrounding neighborhoods
Visit Website →Fighting displacement and supporting affordable housing initiatives
Visit Website →Artist incubator providing studio space and resources for local creatives
Visit Website →Preserving and sharing stories of Black Dallas history and heritage
Visit Website →Grassroots organizing for community power and self-determination
Visit Website →Reclamation projects prioritize keeping South Dallas residents in their homes and neighborhoods. By supporting community-owned businesses, land trusts, and affordable housing, we fight displacement and keep generational ties intact.
When South Dallas residents own businesses, property, and cultural institutions in their own neighborhoods, wealth stays in the community. Economic power becomes self-determined rather than extracted.
South Dallas has rich cultural heritage that must be preserved and celebrated. From the Forest Theater to Fair Park, from jazz clubs to churches, these spaces tell the story of Black Dallas excellence and resilience.
Reclamation means South Dallas residents lead the conversation about their neighborhood's future. Outside developers don't get to decide. Community members do.
Support South Dallas businesses. Share these stories. Advocate for community-led development. Help preserve our heritage while building our future.
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