Project Babies is a podcast that delves into the personal stories of individuals who grew up in public housing projects, from the 1960s to today. Each episode features intimate interviews and narratives that uncover the evolution of these communities, highlighting both their challenges and strengths. Tune in every Friday at 3 PM with your host, JayRay, for this 12-episode series, and gain a deep understanding of the social and historical context of public housing through candid conversations and compelling personal experiences.
Bronx native and project baby reflects on childhood, community, and resilience, offering poignant insights on the past, present, and lessons learned along the way.
15 Nov 2024
Episode 11: Mary Ann Strickland
In this compelling episode, we sit down with a former resident of the Allen Wilson Terrace Apartments to explore the impact of community and displacement in Decatur, Georgia. From their upbringing in the Decatur Projects to navigating the challenges of urban renewal, our guest shares personal stories of resilience and change. We delve into the role of community support during their childhood, the realities of the displacement epidemic, and the lasting effects on family and friends. Together, we examine how perceptions of public housing have evolved over the years and reflect on the pivotal moments that shaped these changes. Join us for an insightful discussion that highlights the complex legacy of urban renewal and the ongoing conversation about community identity.
8 Nov 2024
Episode 10: First Black Female Mayor of The City of Decatur
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Elizabeth Wilson, the first female mayor of Decatur, Georgia, to explore her remarkable journey from the Allen Wilson Terrace Apartments to a position of leadership in local government. Elizabeth shares her early experiences growing up in the projects and reflects on her transition to power, offering insights into the challenges she faced along the way.
We delve into her pivotal role on the Decatur City Commission during the tumultuous 1960s, as she fought for desegregation in public schools and libraries. Elizabeth discusses the painful legacy of urban renewal projects in the Beacon Community, which displaced hundreds of families, and her thoughts on the city’s evolving demographics and cultural landscape.
Join us as we examine the changing perception of public housing and community identity in Decatur, and listen to Elizabeth’s candid reflections on what went wrong during the era of displacement. We also touch on contemporary issues and conclude with her thoughts on Kamala Harris as she makes history on her path to becoming a potential first Black female president.
Click play for a powerful conversation that highlights the resilience of community and the importance of leadership in the face of adversity.
1 Nov 2024
Episode 9: Coach Carter
In this episode, we explore the rich history of Decatur through the lens of its prominent figures, highlighting the lasting impact they’ve had on the community. We delve into the unique pressures faced by the son of one of Decatur's most significant historical figures, examining the complexities of legacy and identity. Join us as we reflect on the love, connection, and support that once defined the community, and discuss how those dynamics have changed over time. Tune in for a heartfelt journey into Decatur's past and present!
25 Oct 2024
Episode 8: Kenny Caldwell
Join us for a compelling episode as we dive into the rich history of the Decatur Housing Projects through the eyes of a local resident who grew up there from the late 1960s to the late 1980s. Our guest shares heartfelt stories about childhood memories, family dynamics, and the strong sense of community that shaped their identity. We explore the challenges faced, the cultural influences that inspired them, and the lasting impact of living in such a vibrant yet complex environment. Press Play to discover the profound connections and lessons from a time that continues to resonate today.
18 Oct 2024
Episode 7: The First Black Female Officer of Decatur, Georgia
On this episode of Project Babies JayRay and guest Valencia Davis-Jone touch on the harsh realities of being black woman in today’s society coming from a time of poverty, racial segregation and gender inequality.
11 Oct 2024
Episode 6: Earnastine Leach
On this episode of Project Babies JayRay and guest host Earnastine Leach get into topics such as disparities amongst women, segregation and the integration of Decatur’s school system.
4 Oct 2024
Episode 5: Reba Holt History
On this episode of Project Babies host JayRay and guest Reba Holt discuss the Urban Renewal of Decatur, Georgia, the multifaceted perceptions of the projects and the untold history of the Decatur projects from the early 60s to the late 90s.
27 Sept 2024
Episode 4: Pops
On this episode of Project Babies host JayRay and his father sit down to discuss the roots of the Decatur housing projects, the misconceptions of the projects and how community has lost its true meaning throughout society.
21 Sept 2024
Episode 3: Reverend Lancy P Allen
On this episode of Project Babies, Host JayRay and guest Reverend Lancy P Allen discuss the correlation between community and the projects, the true history behind the Decatur housing projects and the falsities that live on today behind the word "projects".
13 Sept 2024
Episode 2: Uncle Lyle
On this episode of Project Babies Host JayRay and Guest Lyle Washington talk about Low-income housing developments in Kingston, South Carolina, the responsibilities kids had to bare in such communities and of course how the perception of the "projects" and how it's shifted since the 90s.
6 Sept 2024
Episode 1 with Shameka Burrowes
On this episode of Project Babies Host Jarrett Ray and guest Shameka Burrowes discuss the impact of low-income housing in native communities, the evolution of low-income housing and the parallels between the projects in America and the projects in Jamaica.
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