Community activists and organizers were left frustrated as plans to shutter the longstanding Democracy Center for extensive renovations moved ahead, despite their fervent opposition. Ian Simmons, president of the Foundation for Civic Leadership, which owns the building, stood firm in his decision at a highly charged meeting Thursday, as reported by The Crimson. The Center, a pillar of grassroots democracy at the corner of DeWolfe and Mt. Auburn Street for 22 years, is set to close July 1.
The planned closure has sparked intense debate, with local activists like Cara Kasey directly challenging Simmons. "What is going to be done to take care of and protect this kinship that you should be completely humbled and honored to even be allowed and brought into?" Kasey questioned, in a statement reported by The Crimson.
Activists aired a list of five demands during the meeting, including halting the closure and demanding a more transparent and democratic process for the future of the space. The community's trust appears to be teetering on the edge as FCL plans to transform the space into Democracy House, aimed at empowering future generations to fortify democracy. However, Simmons's commitment to eventually welcome community groups back post-renovations was met with skepticism.
Concerns crescendoed around the loss of a unique forum for civic engagement, as stated by Chloe Koulefianou, a former FCL intern. "There is no rectifying this decision if it is made. I feel like you can never find a space like the Democracy Center anywhere—it's an incredibly unique space," Koulefianou said in a meeting reported by The Crimson. In the eyes of organizers, closing the DC spells the potential end of a historic chapter of activism in Cambridge.
Renovation plans are still shrouded in ambiguity, with no clear timeline aside from Simmons's estimation that it may take several years. While specifics are lacking, hinted improvements include enhancing handicapped accessibility and increasing the building's sustainability. Despite this, Simmons urged for community input on desired renovations, opening a conversation with the very people who stand against the building's closure.
