Y Connect is thrilled to welcome Gene Kansas—a cultural developer, historic preservationist, and now the author of the powerful new book, Civil Sights: Sweet Auburn, A Journey Through Atlanta's National Treasure.
After meeting Gene a few months ago, we quickly realized there's a tremendous connection between the work he's been doing through Constellations in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood, the vision of his book, and the YMCA's mission to empower youth and build stronger communities. Civil Sights isn't just a history of Sweet Auburn—it's a call to action to preserve the places and stories that have shaped movements and lives, including here in Atlanta.
Today, we'll dive into the inspiring stories in Civil Sights, explore the YMCA's historic ties to Sweet Auburn, and discuss how we can all contribute to preserving history while creating opportunities for the future. Gene, welcome to Y Connect! We're so excited to have you here.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[5:21] Sweet Auburn's historical significance
[10:53] The YMCA's role in Sweet Auburn
[14:13] Gene reads an excerpt from his book
[17:23] Why preservation goes beyond buildings
[24:51] The unsung heroes of Sweet Auburn
[31:00] Getting involved in historical preservation
[36:31] Details of Gene's book launch events in February
[38:58] Gene sheds insight on the importance of learning from history
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
The Butler Street YMCA's historical significance in Sweet Auburn is profound, serving as a cornerstone for black commerce and culture. It was a hub where influential leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Maynard Jackson Jr. gathered, fostering civic engagement and social change. This legacy underscores the YMCA's pivotal role in shaping community dynamics and advancing civil rights.
Preservation extends beyond saving buildings; it's about safeguarding stories and traditions. Through storytelling, we connect with history, ensuring that the lessons of the past inform our future. This approach to preservation emphasizes the importance of community narratives, highlighting unsung heroes and fostering a deeper understanding of cultural heritage.
Gene's vision for Sweet Auburn involves a blend of historic preservation and contemporary development. By integrating new, responsible projects with the rich history of the area, we can create vibrant, engaging spaces that honor the past while embracing the future. This balance is crucial for maintaining the neighborhood's cultural significance and ensuring its continued relevance.
RESOURCE LINKS:
Civil Sights: Sweet Auburn, A Journey Through Atlanta's National Treasure
BIO:
Inspired by a vibrant, culturally rich upbringing in New Orleans, Gene Kansas has established himself as a visionary champion of historic preservation, adaptive reuse, community building, and storytelling through the built environment. Each Gene Kansas project masterfully blends an appreciation of culture and history with creative, responsible, and vital refashioning, bringing new relevance to space and how it is used and enjoyed. An award-winning historic preservationist and real estate developer, Gene leads with passion and purpose, combining bold, forward-thinking vision with a mindset of giving back. At Gene Kansas | Commercial Real Estate, Gene and team focus on building up history, not over it. Gene is also Founder of Constellations, a thoughtful and supportive, culturally based workspace in Atlanta's historic Sweet Auburn neighborhood focused on civic and social difference-making. Gene is the author of Civil Sights (University of Georgia Press, February 2025), and has been published in the AJC, Atlanta Magazine, Atlanta Business Chronicle, and numerous other publications. As creator and host of award-winning Sidewalk Radio, Gene explored life in the modern city through the lens of history and the context of community on Atlanta's AM 1690 "Voice of the Arts."
