Green spaces, Black entrepreneurs: transforming Chicago’s historically marginalized neighborhoods

Hudson, Jeffrey

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/132460 Copy

Description

Title

Green spaces, Black entrepreneurs: transforming Chicago’s historically marginalized neighborhoods

Author(s)

Hudson, Jeffrey

Issue Date

2025-09-04

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Fernandez, Mariela

Committee Member(s)

• Stodolska, Monika
• Walker, Rebecca

Department of Study

Recreation, Sport and Tourism

Discipline

Recreation, Sport, and Tourism

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

M.S.

Degree Level

Thesis

Keyword(s)

• Entrepreneurs
• environmental
• green space
• gardening
• Black
• African American
• urban farm

Abstract

The leisure research details the many physical, psychological, and social benefits associated with urban green spaces. Less attention has been placed on the economic benefits individuals can experience while being involved in these projects. An example of this includes the case of African American entrepreneurs in the context of urban greening projects. The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of African American entrepreneurs in the context of greening projects. Specifically, the research questions that guided this study were: (1) What motivates African American entrepreneurs to engage in urban greening projects such as community gardening?; (2) What challenges do African American entrepreneurs face in creating and sustaining community gardens?; (3) How do African American entrepreneurs describe the impacts of their work on their communities?; and (4) What systems of support do African American entrepreneurs need to sustain their work? This exploratory qualitative study involved interviews with four African American entrepreneurs. Using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis and Lincoln and Guba’s trustworthiness criteria, findings revealed that motivations included environmental stewardship, community connectedness, environmental education, environmental preservation for future generations, and lived disparities. Challenges included limited funding, infrastructure, and systemic racism, while impacts included economic, health, and spiritual benefits. Participants emphasized the need for greater resources, government support, and peer networks.

Graduation Semester

2025-12

Type of Resource

Thesis

Handle URL

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/132460

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2025 Jeffrey Hudson

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